FAQs
General Event Questions
Is the Mackinac Island Swim a race?
No. The Mackinac Island Swim is an open water swimming event, not a traditional race. The focus is on preparation, persistence, and completing a personal challenge — not podiums or rankings.
That said, we do have a little fun with it. Each year, a small number of particularly speedy swimmers receive a "Humble Pie" — an actual pie from our friends at the Mackinaw Bakery — awarded in the spirit of recognizing impressive swims while keeping everything lighthearted. As the award itself reminds us, it’s meant to go to your gut, not your head.
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How far is the swim?
The full loop around Mackinac Island is approximately 8.2 miles, following the island’s shoreline route along State Highway M-185. Some swimmers choose to skip the small loop at the beginning of the course and start directly on the main shoreline route, resulting in a swim of approximately 7 miles (still an ultra-marathon distance swim).
Swimmers may also choose to exit the water at any point if they decide not to continue the full distance.
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Do I have to swim the full 8.2 miles?
No. Solo swimmers may choose how much of the course they complete. If a swimmer exits the water before finishing their intended distance, they are responsible for getting themselves to the finish area on foot or with the assistance of their designated support crew.
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Is this a good event for first-time open water swimmers?
Yes — many participants are first-time long-distance open water swimmers. The course follows the shoreline closely, the water is relatively shallow for much of the swim, and the island’s bike path allows friends, family, and support staff to follow along almost the entire way. That combination creates a uniquely supportive and reassuring environment.
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Just as importantly, swimmers are able to decide how much of the course they take on. Whether you’re aiming for the full loop or simply want to challenge yourself for as long as it feels right on the day, this event allows for flexibility while still providing extensive support.
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How many swimmers participate?
The event is permitted for 400 athletes in the water at one time, which includes solo swimmers, relay swimmers, and kayak support. Relay teams are structured so that only one swimmer from each team is in the water at any given time.
In a typical year, the event includes roughly 250 individual swimmers, 50–60 relay teams, and 50–60 kayakers supporting the swim.
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Is there a time limit?
Yes. Swimmers have up to 8 hours to complete their swim. This time limit exists primarily to allow event staff, safety crews, and on-shore support to wrap up operations within the logistical constraints set by the island and Mission Point Resort — not to encourage speed.
Swimmers receive time updates at each on-shore aid station, along with guidance if adjustments are needed to stay on schedule, including the option to walk a portion of the course if necessary. In typical conditions, it’s very rare for swimmers to be unable to complete their intended distance within the 8-hour window.
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What do I get with registration?
Registration covers the operational costs of the event, including safety staffing, permits, insurance, logistics, and event production. All swimmers receive an event medal, entry to the finish line buffet and additional items such as towels or swag may be included depending on the year.
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Do I need to stay on Mackinac Island the night before the event?
No. Staying on the island is not required. Many swimmers stay on the mainland and arrive via ferry on event morning. Both options are fully planned for, and detailed logistics are provided in advance.
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Can friends and family watch the swim?
Yes. One of the unique aspects of this event is how spectator-friendly it is. Much of the course follows the island’s shoreline bike path, allowing friends, family members, and spectators to follow along and cheer swimmers on for much of the swim.
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Course & Conditions
What direction do swimmers go around the island?
Swimmers begin near the Grand Hotel, and do a 1 mile loop towards the harbor, then move clockwise around Mackinac Island, finishing at Mission Point on the southeast corner of the island.
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What are water conditions like during the swim?
Water conditions in the Mackinac Straits can change quickly and are influenced by wind, weather, and the constant movement of water between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Some sections of the course may feel calm and steady, while others can feel more exposed — and those conditions can shift throughout the morning. That variability is a normal part of swimming in this area.
Because conditions can be unpredictable, swimmers are encouraged to prepare for colder water than they may typically train in and to make thoughtful choices around pacing, wetsuits, and support. The goal isn’t to eliminate variability — it’s to be ready for it.
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What have water temperatures and conditions been in past years?
Water temperatures and conditions have varied widely from year to year, highlighting the importance of preparation and adaptability. Recent event conditions have included:
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2020: 65–68°F — SW winds; fast, choppy start with a slower, calm finish against the current
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2021: 70–72°F — NW winds; slow, choppy start against the current with a fast, calm finish
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2022: 62–65°F — SE winds; fast, calm start with a slow and very challenging finish
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2023: 58–65°F — NNW winds; reports of significantly colder pockets throughout the course
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2024: 64–68°F — N winds with gusts up to 25 mph; calm start followed by 2–4 ft waves for several miles and a current-assisted finish
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2025: 68–74°F — SW winds; 1–2 ft waves with the current for the first half, calm conditions for the final miles
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These examples illustrate how dramatically conditions can change depending on wind direction and weather patterns. Historical data can provide helpful context, but conditions on event day are never guaranteed to match previous years.
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Is the water clear?
Yes! Lake Huron is known for its clarity, and swimmers are often able to see the lake bottom for much of the course. Water visibility of 30–50 feet is typical, even though swimmers are rarely in water deeper than 10–15 feet.
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Is the course measured exactly at 8.2 miles?
The 8.2-mile distance reflects the approximate length of the shoreline loop around Mackinac Island. Like most open water swims, the course is not measured down to the inch, and individual swim distances may vary based on conditions and swimmer navigation.
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Are there aid stations on the course?
Yes. There are two on-shore aid stations, located approximately near mile 3.5 and mile 6, providing support as swimmers make their way around the island. Each aid station is stocked with first aid supplies and staffed by a nurse or supported by a nearby paramedic. Swimmers can expect water, Gatorade, salty snacks, sugary snacks, plenty of high fives, and more encouragement than they may realize they need at that point in the swim. These locations also tend to draw crowds of spectators, making them some of the most energetic and motivating spots along the course.
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What happens if I need to stop early?
Swimmers may exit the water at any point along the course. If a swimmer chooses to stop before completing their intended distance, they are responsible for alerting staff and getting themselves to the finish area on foot or with assistance from their designated support crew.
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Is the course close to shore?
Swimmers generally stay close enough to shore to feel oriented and connected, while remaining far enough out to keep the swim moving smoothly and safely. Safety boats keep swimmers within 200 yards of the shoreline.
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Does the course pass through the harbor?
No. Swimmers do not pass through the harbor due to ferry traffic. The route instead circles the island outside of the harbor area.
Gear & Equipment
Safety & Support
Ferries, Travel & Lodging
Relays & Exchange Logistics
Is a swim buoy required?
Yes. A swim buoy is required for all swimmers. Buoys improve visibility for safety personnel and boats, provide a place to store small items, and give swimmers a quick rest option if needed. Swimmers should mark their buoy with their name and emergency contact information.
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Are wetsuits required?
Wetsuits are strongly recommended, but not required. Swimmers choosing to swim without a wetsuit must have either kayak support or designated land support arranged in advance. This added support provides extra eyes and ears for swimmers who may be more affected by prolonged cold-water exposure.
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Are fins or paddles allowed?
Yes. Swim fins and hand paddles are permitted for both solo swimmers and relay team members. As with all gear choices, swimmers should train with the equipment they plan to use on event day.
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Are headphones allowed?
Yes. Headphones are allowed. Swimmers should ensure they can still remain aware of their surroundings and respond to safety personnel if needed.
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What footwear is recommended?
Much of the shoreline around Mackinac Island is rocky. Many swimmers choose to wear or store water shoes or swim socks in their buoy to protect their feet when entering and exiting the water, especially at aid stations and the finish line.
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What should I carry in my swim buoy?
Common items include nutrition, hydration, anti-chafing supplies, footwear, and any personal items you may want access to during the swim. Swimmers should pack thoughtfully and avoid carrying unnecessary items.
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Is anti-chafing recommended?
Yes. Anti-chafing products are highly recommended, particularly for longer swims. Chafing can become an issue over time even in cooler water conditions. The Mackinac Island Swim recommends a product called 'Salty Britches'.
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What happens to my gear once I start swimming?
Bag drop is available near the start area, and all checked bags are transported to the finish line via dray (horse and trailer). Swimmers should clearly label their gear and plan ahead for what they’ll want access to during the swim versus what can remain in their bag until the finish.
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How is swimmer safety handled during the event?
Safety is layered throughout the Mackinac Island Swim. The event is supported by lifeguards, safety boats, medical personnel, and on-shore staff positioned around the island. The focus is on keeping swimmers safe, supported, and able to continue confidently throughout the swim.
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Who provides medical support during the swim?
The event staffs licensed paramedics and EMTs, with additional lifeguards and medical personnel stationed on-shore and at aid stations. Local emergency services are fully aware of the event and remain in direct communication throughout the morning. In the event of a serious emergency, care is coordinated through 911 and local dispatch, ensuring the appropriate response.
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The event is also permitted through the U.S. Coast Guard, with an official Coast Guard vessel patrolling the course and available to provide water rescue assistance if needed. A roaming paramedic carrying an AED is on course at all times.
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Are there lifeguards on the course?
Yes. More than 20 lifeguards support the event, positioned on boats, in kayaks, and on land as swimmers move around the island. Lifeguard coordinators develop and communicate an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) with all volunteer lifeguards, and coverage zones adjust throughout the morning as swimmers progress along the course.
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What role do kayakers play during the swim?
Kayakers provide optional, swimmer-specific support and are often used for pacing help, nutrition access, or added reassurance. Any kayaker assisting a swimmer should have open-water experience and be comfortable operating independently during the event.
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In addition to personal kayakers, the event also deploys staffed kayakers who roam the course as extra eyes and ears for swimmer safety. These kayakers play an especially important role at the start of the swim, when the course is most congested, and again toward the end of the swim, when swimmers are more likely to be fatigued and benefit from additional observation and support.
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Do I need a kayaker?
Kayaker support is optional for most swimmers. However, swimmers choosing to swim without a wetsuit are required to have either kayak support or designated land support arranged in advance. This provides additional eyes and ears for swimmers who may be more affected by prolonged cold-water exposure.
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Does the event provide kayakers?
No. The event does not provide kayakers. Swimmers who bring their own kayaker are required to pay an $89 kayaker support fee, which helps cover costs associated with kayak transportation, event insurance, and the post-swim meal provided to support staff. Kayak rental is not included.
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How are swimmers tracked during the event?
While the Mackinac Island Swim is not timed as a race, swimmers are accounted for at the start and finish using a timing system. This allows event staff to confirm who has entered the water and who has completed their swim.
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Swimmers are not continuously tracked while on course. Many families and support crews choose to follow swimmers using apps such as Find My or Life360 when a phone is placed securely in a swim buoy in an unsubmerged location, though this is optional and not required.
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Event staff are also positioned around the island and regularly check in with swimmers who exit the water. Bib numbers of swimmers who stop early are relayed to the finish area so staff are aware they are safely out of the water.
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What should I do if I need help during the swim?
All swimmers are provided with a whistle and should use it to signal for help in an emergency. If you need assistance at any point, look for nearby support — whether that’s a kayaker, safety boat, lifeguard, or staff member on shore — and signal clearly.
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Cell phone service is available around the island, and phones may be used to help communicate if needed. In addition to emergency services, the event maintains a non-emergency contact number, and a list of important phone numbers is shared with volunteers at packet pick-up so help can be coordinated quickly.
Asking for help is always okay and never considered a problem — safety comes first.
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Do I need to purchase my own ferry ticket?
Yes. Swimmers and support crews are responsible for purchasing their own ferry tickets. Event-specific ferry instructions and discount information are shared by email once they become available and are also posted on the website.
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Do I need to stay on Mackinac Island the night before the swim?
No. Staying on Mackinac Island is not required. Many swimmers stay on the mainland and arrive on the island via ferry on event morning. Logistics are planned to support both options, and detailed guidance is provided in advance.
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What time should I arrive on event morning?
Arrival times depend on whether you’re staying on Mackinac Island or arriving from the mainland. For swimmers and spectators coming from the mainland, event-specific ferries depart from Mackinaw City at 6:30 AM on event morning. Anyone taking this ferry should plan to arrive in Mackinaw City by 6:00 AM to allow time for staging and boarding.
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Swimmers staying on Mackinac Island can plan to arrive at the start area around 7:00 AM, which allows plenty of time before the swim begins.
Additional details, reminders, and step-by-step guidance are shared in the event packet, in emails leading up to the swim, and through videos and information already available on this website.
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Where does packet pick-up take place?
Packet pick-up typically takes place in Mackinaw City on Friday and Saturday prior to the event. Exact times and locations are communicated ahead of the event and included in pre-event emails.
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Are cars allowed on Mackinac Island?
No. Personal vehicles are not allowed on Mackinac Island. Transportation is done on foot, by bicycle, or by horse-drawn taxi. Swimmers and relay teams should plan accordingly when moving between ferry docks, start areas, exchange points, and the finish.
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Many swimmers and support crew members choose to bring their own bicycles over on the ferry or rent bikes on the island to make getting around easier.
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Can spectators follow the swim around the island?
Yes. One of the unique aspects of the Mackinac Island Swim is how spectator-friendly it is. Much of the course runs alongside the island’s shoreline bike path, allowing friends, family members, and spectators to follow along and cheer swimmers on for much of the event.
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What happens after I finish swimming?
After finishing, swimmers can collect their gear, refuel, and enjoy the finish-area atmosphere. Post-swim food and recovery details are shared closer to event weekend.
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How do relay teams work?
Relay teams consist of 2–6 swimmers who divide the course into segments. One swimmer is in the water at a time, and relay members take turns completing portions of the route as they move around the island together.
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Where do relay exchanges take place?
Relay exchanges occur at designated shoreline locations along the course. Exchange points are chosen to be accessible and spectator-friendly, and staff are present to help keep exchanges organized and moving smoothly.
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How do relay teammates move around the island?
Mackinac Island does not allow personal vehicles, so relay teams move between exchange points on foot or by bicycle. Many relay teams choose to take their own bikes across on the ferry or rent bikes to make transitions easier. Walking is also common and completely manageable with planning.
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Do relay swimmers need to stay together as a team?
Relay teams are encouraged to stay relatively close together so exchanges can happen smoothly, but there’s flexibility built in. Teams should plan ahead for how they’ll regroup at exchange points based on their swimmers’ pacing and preferred transportation.
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Is kayak support required for relay teams?
No. Kayak support is not required for relay teams. Some teams choose to bring a kayak for added reassurance or logistical support during the swim, but it is optional.
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What happens if a relay swimmer needs to stop early?
If a relay swimmer needs to exit the water early, that’s completely okay. Relay exchange zones are staffed with volunteers who manage check-ins and can help support teams in these situations. Relay teams can adjust their plan and continue if desired, as long as event staff at the exchange point are aware of the situation. In some cases, a relay swimmer may already be waiting at the next exchange point when this occurs.
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Because the course follows the shoreline and staff are positioned around the island, we’re often able to help relay teams communicate and adjust on the fly — but this isn’t guaranteed. For that reason, teams are encouraged to make contingency plans with their relay members ahead of time so everyone knows how to proceed if plans change.
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​How are relay swimmers tracked?
Relay swimmers check in and are accounted for at each exchange point. While relay legs are not timed as a race, this process helps event staff ensure swimmers are safely entering and exiting the water as expected.
Registration & Policies
How do I register for the event?
Registration is completed online through RunSignUp. Available participation options, pricing tiers, and category details are clearly outlined during the registration process, with additional context provided on the Event Details page of this website.
If you’re unsure which option makes the most sense for you, reviewing the Event Details page first can be helpful — and you can always reach out with questions before registering.
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Can I switch between solo and relay after registering?
Yes, changes between solo and relay participation are usually possible, depending on timing and availability. Making changes sooner rather than later is always helpful and makes the process much easier.
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If a swimmer switches from a relay to a solo registration after paying the relay rate, an additional $50 will be required to reflect the solo pricing. If you’re considering a change, reach out and we’ll help walk through the best option based on your situation.
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Can I change relay team members after registering?
Yes. Relay team members can typically be updated prior to the event. Instructions for making changes are provided during registration, and additional guidance is shared closer to event weekend.
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What is the minimum age to participate?
There is no specific minimum age. Swimmers ages 15–18 are welcome to participate with parental consent. Swimmers under the age of 15 may also participate, provided prior arrangements are made with the event director.
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In most cases, younger swimmers are accompanied by family members — either through kayak support or by having a family member swim directly alongside them. Mackinac Island has a long tradition of welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds, and the Mackinac Island Swim reflects that same spirit. We love seeing families take on this challenge together and create lasting memories in the process.
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What is the cancellation or deferral policy?
Because of the logistics involved in producing the event, registration fees are generally non-refundable. That said, the event has historically been flexible with deferrals when circumstances change, especially when communicated early. Specific policies are outlined during registration.
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Can I transfer my registration to another swimmer?
Registration transfers may be possible in certain situations. Please contact the event team for guidance if you’re considering a transfer.
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What if I register but don’t feel ready on event day?
That’s okay. This event is designed to emphasize preparation and personal choice. Swimmers are never required to complete a specific distance and may exit the water at any time.
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How will I receive important updates and information?
Most event communication happens via email, including logistics updates, ferry information, and final event details. Swimmers are encouraged to ensure their registration email is accurate and to check messages leading up to event weekend.
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Who should I contact if I still have questions?
If you have questions that aren’t answered on the website, feel free to reach out directly to the event director, Jon Vos, at jon@swimaroundmac.com. We’re always happy to help clarify anything ahead of event day.