To cap off an incredible trip to California, on a serene Saturday morning, I joined a group of adventurous souls donning wetsuits and boarded a ferry bound for Alcatraz Island. The only hitch? We didn't have a return ride planned.
As someone not particularly adept at swimming and influenced by the infamous films of Steven Spielberg, I harboured reservations about venturing into the domain of one of the ocean's most feared creatures, the great white shark. Not to mention, the renowned strong currents and frigid temperatures of the waters.
However, luck was on our side that day, with clear skies and calm waters greeting us upon arrival—a stroke of fortune not lost on us.
Despite the initial challenges—especially the first 500 meters which proved quite daunting—I eventually found my rhythm. As fellow swimmers dispersed and support boats came to aid those struggling, I began to appreciate the experience. Pausing only to snap photos and marvel at the stunning 360-degree views, the swim became truly exhilarating.
I wholeheartedly recommend this adventure to others. In fact, I'm already contemplating signing up again or planning my next trip to San Francisco around a similar event.
Escape from Alcatraz, while certainly no easy feat, ranks among my favourite experiences to date. And, true to the song, I undoubtedly left a piece of my heart in San Francisco.
