Dark Mofo Swim
- Jun 22, 2026
- Last edition date
- Distance: 100m
About the race
The Dark Mofo Swim is a nude plunge into Hobart’s River Derwent, held in the deep pre-dawn hours on the winter solstice. It is a ritual of renewal and a rite of passage, where participants charge into the freezing water to confront the cold and darkness. It is a non-competitive event, described as raw and radical, with no medals or timing chips.
Course
A symbolic nude plunge into the River Derwent at Hobart, held during the pre-dawn hours of the winter solstice.
Awards
Non-competitive event; no medals or timing chips.
How to get there
Dark Mofo Swim
Where to stay
Hobart offers a diverse range of stays, from historic colonial-era cottages near the waterfront to boutique hotels housed in restored warehouses on the docks. Expect to find charming heritage guest houses in the Battery Point area, often reflecting the city's 19th-century whaling history. Prices generally range from $150 to $400 per night depending on the proximity to the harbour. For those preferring a more rugged approach, caravan parks and camping sites are available along the coast, providing direct access to the estuary’s edge. Find your accommodation here.
Things to do nearby
The weekend of the swim is defined by the Dark Mofo festival, which embraces the solstice with art installations, fire ceremonies, and late-night performances. Beyond the festival, you can explore the city’s maritime heritage through tours of the waterfront or take a kayak trip to observe the local ecology of the river. For a change of pace, the trails around Mount Wellington offer challenging trekking with panoramic views of the entire estuary. Local distilleries and waterfront eateries provide an ideal setting to warm up after the morning plunge. Explore nearby activities here.
Swimmers
Comments
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