XVII Travesía a nado de El Puerto de Santa María

The waters of the Bay of Cádiz are defined by a rhythmic, tidal pulse that shapes every stroke during the race. This Atlantic inlet, where the currents dictate the flow of the swim, often brings a refreshing, saline clarity to the surface. As you navigate the course off Playa de La Puntilla, the silhouette of the Castle of San Marcos dominates the horizon. Built by Alfonso X the Wise in the 13th century, this medieval fortress stands directly over the foundations of an older Islamic mosque, with parts of the original qibla wall still integrated into its stone structure. It serves as a stark, historical marker for swimmers as they pull through the bay.

Historical waters and marine life

The area is deeply connected to its maritime heritage, notably during the annual procession of the Virgen del Carmen. On July 16th, the patron saint of fishermen is carried from the local church and paraded through these very waters on a fishing vessel, a tradition that underscores the community's bond with the sea. Beneath the surface, the terrain is equally historic; the city is widely identified as the location of the Roman Portus Gaditanus, a major shipping hub promoted by Lucius Cornelius Balbus the Younger around 19 BC. Archaeological findings, including remnants of Roman pottery, continue to emerge from the city center, hinting at the centuries of maritime activity lying just offshore. For those who venture toward the rocky outcrops near Playa de La Muralla, the underwater landscape changes significantly, offering a different topography that attracts local divers and spearfishermen.

Race day logistics

The seventeenth edition of the event, scheduled for July 4th, 2026, features distances of 800, 1500, and 3000 meters. The 3000-meter race is a core event in the Diputación de Cádiz Open Water Circuit. Participants often find the waters teeming with life, including the common sightings of bottlenose dolphins, which are native to this part of the natural park. The logistics of the day are managed by OKEYMAS PUERTO and Brazadas Solidarias, ensuring a safe environment for all levels of experience. While this event offers a unique perspective on the Andalusian coast, swimmers looking to round out their season often consider the timing of other nearby challenges, such as the Memorial Santos Fernández or the Travesía a nado Picoco-Playa de Regla, which provide distinct water conditions throughout the summer and autumn months.