Sea— Egypt

Aquaman Open Water Somabay

Oct 30, 2026
Distances from 500m to 15km

About the race

The Red Sea here is defined by the unique topography of the Soma Bay peninsula, a natural inlet where the water remains sheltered from the open ocean swells by the surrounding landmass. When you enter at S.cape Beach, you are stepping into a basin known for its high salinity and remarkable clarity, which keeps visibility high even as you push out into the deeper channels. The bay functions like a massive, shallow-gradient pool, with minimal tidal influence that allows for a predictable swimming environment. Unlike the open currents of the northern Gulf, the water here stays calm and consistent throughout the day, creating an ideal setting for long-distance efforts where efficiency is key. Swimmers often find that the buoyant, warm water allows for a sustained stroke rate, though the bright desert sun reflecting off the seabed requires a reliable pair of tinted goggles to maintain your sighting lines.

Race day logistics

Organized annually by the Aquaman series, the event on October 30, 2026, focuses on accessibility for all levels of experience, with distances ranging from a 500m dash for juniors to a 15km ultra-endurance challenge. The entry fees vary from 35 to 110 EUR depending on the distance and registration tier, a cost that covers the comprehensive safety infrastructure, including kayak support and medical staff stationed along the course. Every participant receives a race kit featuring a timing chip, a branded swim cap, and the event-specific tattoo to ensure smooth identification at the feeding stations. You can find detailed information on the official stay options or browse the local recreational activities to round out your visit in this desert-meets-sea environment.

Course

500 m

Aquakids race. Start and finish at S.cape Beach.

1 km

Aquafins race (with fins). Start and finish at S.cape Beach.

2 km

Start and finish at S.cape Beach. No feeding points.

5 km

Start and finish at S.cape Beach. 1 feeding point.

10 km

Start and finish at S.cape Beach. 2 feeding points.

15 km

Start and finish at S.cape Beach. 3 feeding points.

Awards

Award ceremonies scheduled for Friday and Saturday at S.cape Beach.

Aid stations

Feeding points vary by distance (1 to 3 stations).

How to get there

✈️ Search flights to HRG

Aquaman Open Water Somabay

Where to stay

Athletes are primarily hosted at The Kaktus Somabay, an official partner hotel located approximately 3km from the race village. The area features a mix of high-end resort complexes and beachfront boutique hotels catering to the diving and watersports community. Expect nightly rates to range from 150 to 350 EUR depending on the season and proximity to the water. Complimentary shuttle buses are provided to ensure easy transit between these properties and the S.cape Beach start line throughout the event weekend.

Things to do nearby

Beyond the race, the peninsula is a hub for marine-focused recreation. You can explore the extensive house reefs through guided snorkeling or diving excursions, or utilize the calm bay conditions for kayak and SUP sessions. For those seeking land-based activity, the surrounding desert landscape offers organized quad-bike safaris and guided trekking tours that provide a stark, scenic contrast to the coastal environment. Local harbors also serve as starting points for boat trips to nearby islands, perfect for a post-race recovery day.

Swimmers

Other stages of this series

Other races by this organiser

Comments

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