“Sharks?” Brother Swims from Robben Island to Bloubergstrand

• A South African lifeguard completed a daring early morning swim from Robben Island to Bloubergstrand, a distance of roughly 7 kilometres
• The swim took one to two hours, depending on currents and water temperature, highlighting the physical and mental challenges
• Social media users applauded the endurance, courage, and preparation, showing how skill and discipline can make seemingly impossible challenges achievable

The video went viral, inspiring viewers and sparking conversations about personal achievement, fitness, and resilience. It also served as a reminder of the extraordinary lengths ordinary South Africans go to challenge themselves and push boundaries.

A South African lifeguard amazed viewers after swimming from Robben Island to Bloubergstrand in the early morning before breakfast. The video, posted by @nandie_jacobs on 25 February 2026, captured the incredible feat, with her applauding her brother for finishing the swim challenge. The caption reads:

“What a beast! So, so proud of him! #robbenisland #swim #bigbayevents #lifeguard.”

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The distance between Robben Island and Bloubergstrand is roughly 7 kilometres, a challenging swim that can take even experienced swimmers one to two hours depending on currents, wind, and water temperature. Being a trained lifeguard, he was well-prepared for the physical and mental demands of the journey.

Life guard conquered Robben Island swim

The swim highlighted not just endurance but also courage, as South African waters are known for chilly temperatures and occasional shark sightings. While many worried yet impressed netizens jokingly referenced the sharks, the feat was largely a testament to skill, fitness, and determination.

The video by user @nandie_jacobs quickly went viral, inspiring viewers with the brother’s discipline and fearlessness. Many commented on the importance of physical fitness, resilience, and pursuing personal challenges, celebrating him as an example of South African perseverance and strength

Check out the TikTok video below:

Here’s what Mzansi said

Anele commented:

“Mandela thinks this is AI. 😭”

Mona commented:

“So awesome to support Zanele as part of the Cape Long Distance Swimming Association’s Summit Programme! So proud of you, Sanele! Wonderfully supported by his family! 💙🏊🏾 #cldsa #summithero”

PoinzC commented:

“This is incredible. On Netflix, there is a documentary called NYAD, I think (?), about a lady who swam from Cuba to Florida. More than 90 miles. You have to watch it. You both will be inspired and see how much you inspire others. This is incredible.”

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maxh95 commented:

“He did a great thing for all of us who can’t swim. 👀”

H.E.R commented:

“There was a struggle activist who successfully escaped by swimming.”

VanessaM commented:

“So proud of this stranger. I know that was not easy, but he made it possible.”

InYourBlindSpot commented:

“You can’t just decide on the spot to do that. There is a whole process you need to follow before you are permitted.”

JoleneMartin commented:

“This is firmly on my bucket list! 🔥🤎 Much respect to your brother. 🫡”

I_am_Waldro commented:

“The water there is always 0 degrees. 😭😭😭”

MaFuze commented:

“This thing of doing hard things is getting out of hand. 😩👏🏽”

Seeona asked:

“Hey, hun. 🙂 We’re still waiting for the name of the salon that did your hair. I believe the hairstylist is uMazo… Please. 🔌”

Amanda_M commented:

“I can imagine the anxiety of waiting for him to make it. 😭 I wouldn’t survive. Big up to you too for keeping cool.”

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Ada’s Creation commented:

“I remember this morning. I went for a walk and was shocked to see people swimming from there. Well done.”

3 Other Briefly News stories about Robben Island

• A Cape Town content creator posted an apology video after making a joke about turning Robben Island into a party venue.
• Robben Island is notable because of what it represents in history, and one of the things that makes it remarkable is that Nelson Mandela served 27 years.
• Former African National Congress president Thabo Mbeki left social media divided with his comments questioning Jacob Zuma’s arrest at Robben Island.

Source: Briefly News