This past summer I went to Corfu to participate in the Albania to Corfu swim which is run by a local charity that supports four marine environmental initiatives: https://www.albaniaoverboard.com/swim-info

On the day of the swim, sea conditions prevented the crossing which meant a rearranged swim from one bay in Corfu to another. Although it was disappointing to not be able to say in grandiose fashion that I swam from Albania to Greece, it was still a lot of fun and a beautiful swim with lovely people. Later in Corfu I stumbled upon a classic rudimentary harbour pool on the edge of the old town which had been designed as a place for anyone who wanted to swim safely. It was beautifully well worn with a handful of people lying in the morning sun and swimming.

I was really taken with the slightly crumbling dive platform and ladders that had been built for ease of entry into the water. There was an option to swim laps in the roped off area or to venture out beneath the castle.

I then noticed a feature which made me appreciate the design in a new way. This was a ‘Seatrac’ which according to the maker’s website is ‘an innovative, technological assistant that promotes autonomy, quality, and wellness in everyday life. It encourages integration and inclusion of all members of society. It allows caretakers and families of people with disabilities to enjoy beachgoing without physical hassle.’ https://seatrac.gr/en/about-seatrac/

Further investigation reveals that there are over 200 in Greece and more across the world. I wanted to capture an image of this device and tried to position myself for the best shot possible only to be put off by the humongous and hulking yachts in the background. Then on second thought I realised that the contrasting realities facing one another spoke volumes.