Paddler boarders and surf skiers journey from Rottnest Island to Sorrento

Paddle from Rottnest Island to Sorrento Beach in The Doctor SUP event

Don't panic when you hear the words 'The Doctor' - in this case, it's not time for your annual check up, but rather a Perth ocean paddling event that takes adventure seekers and lovers of the deep blue sea from Rottnest Island to Sorrento Beach.

The race covers a whopping 27 kilometres, making it a gruelling, action-packed event that paddlers look forward to all year. It used to take place in January, but it was decided this year to move the event to November, meaning eager paddlers have the chance to complete this race two times in one year. Keep both Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November free, as the one-day event has a two-day window to allow for adverse weather conditions.

The Doctor isn't just limited to skis - it's also open to SUPs (stand-up paddle boards) and OC1s. There are lucrative prizes for place-getters in each category, including $5,000 for first place on the men's ski, with different prizes for different age groups and genders. SUP competitors are in a class of their own with the prize money to match, and there are different categories for the different board lengths.

Don't worry about lugging your craft over to the start of the race yourself - The Doctor has a service to do that for you, and all you have to do is catch the ferry to Rottnest Island and relax as you contemplate the strenuous trip back to Sorrento Beach. Keep an eye on official race information, as the race course and time are often not confirmed until the Friday evening pre-race briefing in order to take wind and weather conditions into account. If the winds are blowing the wrong way, the race course may be reversed, so keep an open mind!


"Don't panic when you hear the words 'The Doctor' - in this case, it's not time for your annual check up, but rather a Perth ocean paddling event that takes adventure seekers and lovers of the deep blue sea from Rottnest Island to Sorrento Beach."


On race day, make sure you bring your life-jacket, flare, timing clip, leash, rudder and tools for your ski, paddle, a cool drink to keep you hydrated and any sponsor and race number stickers. You must attend the registration and race briefing, so it's a good idea to arrive in Perth a couple of days before the event in order to participate fully. Why not make a holiday of it?

Stay at Mantra on Hay, which offers everything from hotel rooms up to three bedroom suites in order to cater to tour groups of every size. Bring the family along to cheer you on at The Doctor or fly solo in your own room, and make the most of the onsite gym to boost your muscles before the big race. Use your fully equipped kitchen to prepare your special pre-race day meal, and enjoy a drink at the bar afterwards to celebrate.

Alternatively, try out Mantra on Murray and dine out at 305 Restaurant and Bar without even leaving the accommodation premises. Accommodation options range from a Queen Studio through to a Deluxe Suite, and you're just a kilometre away from Barrack Jetty to catch the ferry over to Rottnest Island.

If you are travelling to Western Australia to take part in The Doctor, make the most of your holiday and take a look at the range of other surf and paddle events happening around the area while you're there. On the weekend of the 22nd of November there's the Fenn West Coast Downwind, and on Thursday 27th November you can check out the Statewide Oil Sunset Surfski Series. The first weekend of December sees the Mandurah Duel get under way, so there's plenty of ocean activity for you to witness and participate in.


Perth hotels

Mantra on Hay
Mantra on Hay

These spacious apartments are newly refurbished and are ideal for both couples and families...Read More »

Mantra on Murray
Mantra on Murray

Stylish with contemporary décor, these suites are comfortably furnished with modern facilities...Read More »


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