Francesco said ‘ breakfast at 8 and be ready by 8.45’ we were to be escorted to the boat on day 1. After that. We’re trusted to walk.

Down to the marina we met Eduardo our boat captain. He’s a typical young Italian man. Very tanned, bald head, chain necklace, vape folded into his fist and a cheeky attitude.

Francesco outlined the day and away we went.

About 30 minutes later the boat stopped in a sheltered bay. We did our orientation swim where they look at our speed and later give us our groups.

I could have saved them time looking at me. I knew I’d be in the slow group and I’m happy to be.

I’m surprised so many wear fins. I’ve always loved mine. I think the group is mostly over 60. There are two sister here with their mum. They’ll be fast.

We swam around 1.5 km maybe more and then stopped for lunch on the boat.

Lunch made by Eduardo’s mum was a huge pasta salad and done cold meats and cheese. Just perfect for swimmers.

The afternoon swim was much longer in our groups. I’m with Beth, Kaz and Steve

We made a tight little group and I was happy with how I swam. It worked out at around 3.5.

Back to the boat harbour it was buzzing and we headed for the nearest bar. We needed a beer after all the salt.

Steve and I headed out for dinner around 7.30 – the others went off in their groups. It would be nice to start being more included.