The 14 Bis Crossing is one of the most iconic events in open water swimming, and its name is a tribute to the legendary 14 Bis airplane, designed by Santos Dumont, symbolizing the overcoming of challenges and the pursuit of new horizons. The inaugural edition took place in 1969, and since then, this race has become a landmark for swimmers who are challenged to swim long distances in open waters.
The 14.5 km route, which cuts through the crystal-clear waters of São Paulo's coastline, tests athletes as they face the unpredictable conditions of open water. With a festive atmosphere and enthusiastic spectators, the 14 Bis Crossing is one of the largest open water swimming events in Brazil. The event also attracts participants from all over Brazil and even abroad, who seek to push their limits while celebrating the beauty and grandeur of the region's natural environment.
“The 14 Bis Crossing is one of the country’s most traditional and significant competitions, not just for its historical legacy but also for the exceptional infrastructure it offers to athletes,” says Catarina Porfírio, a renowned swimmer and open water expert. With a career marked by major achievements, she won a bronze medal at the event in December 2017 in Santos, SP, and repeated the feat in
December 2018, in the same city. Today, Catarina is recognized as one of Brazil's top technical references in the sport. "The 14 Bis Crossing is more than just a test of endurance; it’s a true celebration of the passion for swimming."
Beyond its sporting significance, the 14 Bis Crossing also has a substantial impact on the local economy. The event attracts thousands of tourists to Bertioga, boosting commerce, hotels, and tourism services in the area. According to estimates from the Bertioga Tourism Department, the event generates a 30% increase in tourism during competition week. Local restaurants, bars, and shops gear up to accommodate the large number of participants, their families, and spectators.
Socially, the event has contributed to the growing popularity of open water swimming in Brazil, a sport that is expanding every year. In addition, many social responsibility initiatives are held alongside the competition, such as children’s activities and environmental preservation campaigns, focusing on raising awareness about marine conservation.
Participating in the 14 Bis Crossing requires much more than just courage. Logistics and training are key factors for success. “It’s a demanding event that requires physical, mental, and strategic preparation,” highlights Porfírio. “The sea is unpredictable, so athletes must train both in open water and in pools to condition their bodies for various conditions.”
For those preparing for the race, the focus should be on endurance, open water swimming, and training that simulates the race route. Proper nutrition and hydration before and during the race are also crucial. Additionally, safety is a priority for the event organizers, who provide rescue teams, safety boats, and monitors to ensure the swimmers’ well-being.
What makes the 14 Bis Crossing even more special are the stories of perseverance that emerge with each edition. Athletes pushing their own limits, swimmers facing the race as a way to overcome personal obstacles, and even first-time open water competitors all have their own stories of triumphs and challenges.
One athlete shares her experience: "The 14 Bis Crossing is one of the greatest challenges of my life. The feeling of finishing after hours of training and dedication is indescribable. It’s a race that goes beyond sport; it’s a celebration of life."
As the 57th edition approaches, the 14 Bis Crossing continues to be an event that honors its tradition while reinventing itself year after year. The race represents the fusion of love for the sport, tourism, and environmental appreciation, creating a platform for athletes to not only test their limits but also experience a transformative journey.
If you’re a fan of aquatic sports and haven’t yet ventured into the 14 Bis Crossing, perhaps 2025 will be the year to take that step. For veterans, the competition remains a space to challenge themselves, reconnect with the sports community, and celebrate their passion for swimming.
The 14 Bis Crossing is more than just a race. It’s a unique experience that, year after year, brings together swimmers, families, sports enthusiasts, and tourists in a celebration of achievement and perseverance. The event reaffirms, year after year, its status as one of the largest and most important open water swimming competitions in Brazil.
This article was developed with the participation of elite ultramarathon open water swimmer and competitor of the event, Catarina Porfírio. With over a decade of experience, Catarina is recognized for her exceptional physical and mental endurance, having won numerous open water marathons, including multiple stages of the Maratona Aquática Circuit and Trirex Circuit by Chelso Esportes, as well as shining in the Aquamundo Circuit and the 14 Bis Crossing. Her outstanding achievements include the fifth-best time for women in the Leme to Pontal Swimming Association (36 km in open water) and the title of “Queen of the LPSA.” In 2022, Catarina became the first athlete to complete the solo 50 km crossing between Praia Vermelha and Barra de Guaratiba, a feat recognized by the Guinness World Records and WOWSA.
