11.1 DISCOVERY AND 22.2 BUILD options
“We always try to encourage swimmers to take on the full 33.3km challenge because time and again, we’ve seen that most competent swimmers can push beyond their perceived physical and mental limits, also carried by the incredible energy of the 33.3 tribe, and nail the full 33.3. However, we also recognise that some swimmers prefer to set themselves a slightly less demanding goal - while still achieving an impressive swim. That’s why we created the 22.2km BUILD and 11.1km DISCOVERY options: to offer a stepping stone or a more measured challenge within the UltraSwim experience.” — Mark Turner, Founder, UltraSwim 33.3
For those looking to challenge themselves at different levels, we have two tailored options alongside the full 33.3km event:
11.1km DISCOVERY – Explore at Your Own Pace
Ideal for those new to long-distance open water swimming or looking for a more relaxed challenge, the 11.1 DISCOVERY option keeps swims between 1.5–3km per day, never exceeding 3km in one go. You’ll enjoy:
✔️ Key sections of the main course, including in Montenegro for example, the iconic Blue Cave swim start, the submarine pen turning mark and the historic fortress Mamula island loop.
✔️ A chance to build confidence in open water, while still being part of the UltraSwim 33.3 community.
✔️ The same luxury experience and support as the full event—without the high mileage.
22.2km BUILD Option – Step Up Your Endurance
Perfect for swimmers who want to build toward longer distances, the 22.2 BUILD option covers 4-7km per day over four days. You’ll experience key highlights of the full challenge, including:
✔️ The longest swim on Day 3, alongside the full-distance swimmers, where you'll push past previous limits.
✔️ In Montenegro, this will include a mix of scenic coastal swims, fjord crossings, the Blue Cave traverse, and an exhilarating Croatia-to-Montenegro country-to-country channel crossing on the final day.
✔️ The thrill of swimming through an abandoned submarine pen—a truly unique experience!
What does a 22.2 or 11.1 day look like?
There is no difference in the experience, information provided or price for 11.1/22.2 compared with the full 33.3 - but the swims you will take on are of course shorter each day, and are part or all of the full course depending on logistical or weather constraints. You'll sometimes start with the 33.3ers and other times finish with them.
See below an example of the planned swims in #7Croatia in 2025.
✨ “The first 22.2 I swam was magic as it made me (and Marie) feel that it was doable!” – Karen Heng, UK ✨ Karen then went on to complete very well her first full 33.3 at #5Montenegro 2024.
