Gouwzee crossing
Mark Sunday 6 September 2026 firmly in your diary: the Netherlands’ premier open-water swimming event is back! The famous Marken-Monnickendam crossing is an absolute highlight on this summer’s open-water swimming calendar. Swimmers from across the Netherlands and abroad will dive into the natural waters for a spectacular 3.5-kilometre swim across the Gouwzee. This prestigious crossing, from picturesque Marken to historic Monnickendam, is the ultimate test of your endurance and love for open-water swimming.
Are you looking for a sporting challenge where you can experience the raw power of nature? During this impressive open-water endurance swim, you’ll conquer the Gouwzee, notorious for its sweeping views and unpredictable waves. The wind will keep you on your toes until the finish line in Monnickendam comes into view. Whether you’re training for your first major crossing or are already a seasoned open-water swimmer, the fantastic atmosphere and the boisterous, cheering crowd ensure an unforgettable and warm welcome at the finish.
What’s more, during this 14th edition, you’ll be swimming for a wonderful charity, under the fitting motto: ‘Experience nature in open water!’. A portion of the proceeds goes directly to fundamental ecological research carried out by Wageningen University & Research. Their research into the ecosystem in the IJsselmeer region is crucial for successful nature restoration and sustainable water management in the Netherlands. In this way, through this swim crossing, we’re all contributing together to a clean, living and vibrant IJsselmeer!
Sustainable Water Management
Clean natural water is the absolute foundation of any swim, but unfortunately our global water system is becoming increasingly unbalanced. That is why this open-water swimming event supports Wageningen University & Research (WUR). They work tirelessly to create healthy, resilient water systems that are once again perfectly in balance with nature. Through an innovative, integrated approach, the university translates fundamental science into natural solutions. In this way, by featuring on the 2026 open-water swimming calendar, we are making a direct contribution to climate resilience and the conservation of vital ecosystems.
To make a real impact, WUR’s passionate researchers are building a bridge between science and society. To this end, they collaborate closely with government bodies and nature conservation organisations. Their expertise is indispensable for transforming complex water challenges into concrete opportunities for ecological restoration. Through a smart, interdisciplinary approach, they are developing methods that structurally improve the water quality of our natural water bodies. In this way, academic knowledge becomes tangible, and the interests of nature, people and keen outdoor swimmers are once again beautifully balanced.
Specifically, WUR is investigating how factors such as climate change and nutrients affect the underwater environment in the IJsselmeer region. The ultimate goal is a water-positive society, in which healthy and safe swimming waters form the basis for thriving ecosystems. By linking scientific insights to practical water management, the university helps to protect our water resources. So, when you take the plunge this summer for this open-water challenge, you’ll be swimming directly for the natural world we cherish so much. Together, we’ll ensure that this enchanting underwater world remains vibrant for future generations too!
secure your ENTRY TICKET
Are you ready for the ultimate challenge on the summer 2026 open-water swimming calendar? On Sunday 6 September 2026, put yourself to the test at the Marken Monnickendam open-water swimming event. Get ready for an epic 3.5-kilometre swim, straight across the challenging natural waters from picturesque Marken to historic Monnickendam. Experience the impressive power of the Gouwzee and enjoy the breathtaking views in the blue heart of the Netherlands. This unique swim guarantees an unforgettable sporting experience where perseverance is key.
This quintessentially Dutch open-water event is an absolute must for both seasoned outdoor swimmers and keen competitive swimmers looking to achieve a top performance. Whether you’re taking part for the challenging 3.5 kilometres, the iconic swimming route, or the fantastic atmosphere on the water: it’s guaranteed to be a sensational day. Join a wonderful tradition that brings together hundreds of swimming enthusiasts. Discover for yourself why this endurance swim has been a highly coveted milestone for years for anyone keen on open-water swimming in the Netherlands.
Signing up is quick and easy: click on the blue button below and secure your entry straight away in our online shop. You can choose from three different start waves, with start times scheduled between 08.00 and 13.00. Before you order your ticket for this event, please take a moment to read the applicable terms and conditions and the rules, so that you arrive at the start line safe and fully prepared. Seize this opportunity to push your limits and achieve a heroic feat together with fellow swimming enthusiasts!
This year’s Marken Monnickendam 2026 open-water swimming event is made possible by the following partners and organisations collaborating with the Rondje Pampus Foundation:
Would you like to stay up to date with the latest news about the Marken Monnickendam open-water swim and make sure you don’t miss a thing? Follow us on WhatsApp or via our social media channels. If you have any specific questions about this open-water swimming event, simply fill in our contact form.
Marken AND monnickendam
The starting point for this spectacular open-water swimming event in the summer of 2026 is Marken. This picturesque peninsula in the Markermeer has a unique history dating all the way back to the 13th century. Because Marken was an isolated island for centuries, it still boasts a fascinating culture all of its own. As you walk past the iconic wooden houses on stilts before your swim, you’ll immediately sense the rich fishing heritage. This close-knit community has always lived in and with the water – a passion that we, as keen open-water swimmers, understand better than anyone!
On the other side of the Gouwzee lies the finish line of your swim: the charming town of Monnickendam. This side of the water also boasts an impressive past. Founded in the 14th century and granted town privileges in 1355, Monnickendam rapidly grew into a bustling trading centre for shipbuilding and herring fishing. When you step out of the water after a gruelling open-water swim, you’ll be rewarded with the beautiful historic town centre. The old warehouses, charming canals and imposing churches still exude the atmosphere of the Golden Age. Monnickendam was once a crucial hub on the Zuiderzee, and is now the absolute highlight of the summer 2026 swimming calendar.
The history of both Marken and Monnickendam is inextricably linked to the challenging natural waters that surround them. For centuries, both towns braved the elements, severe storms and the capricious open sea. The construction of the Afsluitdijk in 1932 changed all that for good: Marken was connected to the mainland and the turbulent Zuiderzee was transformed into what is now the IJsselmeer region. This marked the beginning of a new era of cultural preservation and recreation, and created the phenomenal, historic backdrop against which we can now safely undertake our ultimate open-water swim.
contact US
Do you have any further questions after visiting our website? We’d be happy to hear from you by email. Please fill in the form below, click ‘send’ and we’ll get in touch with you. If you’d like to stay up to date with the latest developments regarding the Marken Monnickendam open-water swimming event, follow us on social media:
Stichting Rondje Pampus is the organiser of Marken Monnickendam. You can find more information about the foundation here on our website.
STICHTING RONDJE PAMPUS
Weesperzijde 142
1091ET Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Chamber of Commerce reg. nr: 85285528
