In early September 2026, the tour boats and other vessels will once again make way for the swimmers participating in the Amsterdam City Swim. Participants will be joining forces to fight the deadly nerve/muscle disease ALS. Thousands of swimmers will dive into the Amsterdam canals for this worthy cause. Every wave and every donation helps advance scientific research into ALS. Registration for 2026 is not yet known. Please note: The 2026 date is an estimate and is subject to change. Canal Swim for charity In 2011, 14 friends started a fundraising campaign for ALS, the deadly nerve-muscle disease suffered by their friend Weert-Jan Weerts. Inspired by the many positive encouragements and donations, they decided to expand the action. Since then, Amsterdam City Swim has become an annual event in which thousands of people participate. The foundation wants to raise as much money as possible for scientific research into ALS and to improve the quality of life of ALS patients. City Swim route The Amsterdam City Swim takes place at the Marineterrein in Amsterdam, abbreviated to MEA. The MEA is the central point of the swim event. All participants gather at the MEA before entering the water. There, everyone can change their clothes and store personal belongings. The participants of the Short Swim and Junior Swim (both 700 meters) will walk to the start at the Scheepvaartmuseum. First, they swim towards the city centre, under the Kortjewandsbrug (a bridge), and then make a U-turn towards the VOC ship anchored at the Scheepvaartmuseum. After which, they swim towards the finish line. There, all swimmers will receive a warm welcome from other participants and the public. Participants of the Classic Swim (2.1 kilometres) will be brought to the Keizersgracht by special buses. The starting point for the Classic Swim will be at Keizergracht at number 663, after which they will swim together through the canals towards the MEA. There, all swimmers will receive a warm welcome from other participants and the public, after which we can toast to the anniversary year and life. 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 donate to support research to fight ALS. 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.
