XXXIII Travesía Puerto de Cartagena
- Sep 19, 2026
- Distances from 200m to 3km
About the race
The approach to Cartagena along the coast road offers a sudden, striking transition from the rugged Murcian landscape to the deep blue of the Mediterranean. As you descend towards the port, the historic skyline—a layered silhouette of Roman ruins and naval architecture—gives way to the sheltered expanse of the harbor, where the XXXIII Travesía Puerto de Cartagena awaits. This event is a cornerstone of the regional open water calendar, drawing swimmers who value the unique sensation of competing within one of the Mediterranean's most significant natural ports.
Race day logistics
The atmosphere on the morning of September 19, 2026, will be one of controlled efficiency. Participants begin checking in at 9:00 AM, a necessary phase to manage the logistics of a harbor-based start. The event offers a clear progression of distances: the younger categories kick off the action at 10:30 AM with an 800m course, followed at 11:00 AM by the main 3,000m challenge for junior, absolute, and master swimmers, alongside a 1,500m popular race. With entry fees ranging from 15 to 20 EUR, the organization focuses on maintaining a safe, structured passage through the port waters, supported by the local expertise of the Federación de Natación de la Región de Murcia and the Club Natación Marina Cartagena Ancora.
What you'll see
Swimming here is not just about the distance; it is about navigating a body of water that has facilitated maritime movement for millennia. The course keeps you within the protected harbor, allowing for a perspective on the city's ancient defenses that is impossible to gain from land. While the water remains typically comfortable for a late September swim, the real draw is the clarity and the scale of the surroundings. Whether you are aiming for a personal best in the 3,000m or testing your speed in the 200m youth category, the experience is defined by the contrast between the intense focus of the race and the historic calm of the port itself.
Awards
Part of the Regional Open Water League of the Región de Murcia.
How to get there
XXXIII Travesía Puerto de Cartagena
Where to stay
Cartagena provides a range of options, from historic boutique hotels located near the port area to well-equipped apartments in the city center. For those arriving with families or groups, smaller guesthouses near the waterfront offer a more localized experience. Expect to pay between 80 and 150 EUR per night during the race weekend, depending on proximity to the harbor and the level of service provided. It is advisable to secure bookings early given the city's popularity in September.
Things to do nearby
Beyond the race, the city itself functions as an open-air museum. Visitors often spend the afternoon exploring the Roman Theatre or touring the various naval museums that line the port. For active recovery, the nearby coastline offers excellent opportunities for sea kayaking and snorkeling in sheltered coves. Culinary experiences center on fresh seafood and local Murcian wines, typically found in the tapas bars around the Calle Mayor and the surrounding plazas.
Swimmers
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