Amsterdam City Swim
This swimming spectacle for charity will return to the canals of Amsterdam. Every September the canal cruise boats and other vessels make way for up to 2,500 brave swimmers (and another 500 kids) as the Amsterdam City Swim returns to the heart of the city.
Canal swim for charity
Held to raise funds for motor disease (known as ALS in the Netherlands), the Amsterdam City Swim sees swimmers raise a minimum sponsorship before diving into the canals to swim its grueling but iconic 2,000-metre course through the city centre.
City Swim route
The swimmers traditionally begin at the Marine Etablissement Amsterdam, braving the waters of the IJ and passing Het Scheepvaartmuseum before heading down the Nieuwe Herengracht. They then take a left up the River Amstel towards Royal Theatre Carré before doubling back and taking another left to the finish on the Keizersgracht (at the crossing with the Reguliersgracht). The main event usually gets underway soon after midday.
Join in the fun
Even if you aren't diving into the water, you can make a difference. Get out in the city centre and support the participants. What's more, you can sponsor swimmers or make a donation to support research into motor neurone disease. If you're out and about, look out for additional entertainment around the start and finish lines.
Check the Amsterdam City Swim website for more information.