The alarm went off at 5am, but I'd barely slept anyway. Today was the day I'd been planning for over a year - the start of my solo kayak circumnavigation of Ireland.
I launched from Sandycove, where James Joyce once swam. The famous Forty Foot bathing spot was quiet at this hour, just a few early morning swimmers who waved as I pushed off into the Irish Sea.
The First Paddle Strokes
The water was calm, thankfully. My kayak sat low in the water, loaded with everything I'd need for the next four months - tent, sleeping bag, stove, food, emergency equipment. It felt heavy and unfamiliar.
Dublin Bay stretched ahead of me. I could see the iconic Poolbeg chimneys marking my route south. This was really happening.
Doubts and Determination
About an hour in, the reality hit me. 700 miles. Solo. Around an island known for its wild weather and dangerous coastlines. What was I thinking?
But I kept paddling. One stroke at a time. That would become my mantra over the coming months.
Evening Landing
I made it to Greystones by evening - about 22 miles on my first day. My arms were already aching, but I was grinning. The locals at the harbour helped me carry my boat up the slipway and pointed me toward a campsite.
Tomorrow: the Wicklow coast. Day 1 was in the books.