Two years ago, I experienced one of the scariest moments of my life: a sea accident that brought me to the brink of drowning. Since then, the sea had become synonymous with fear. Every time I faced the water, my heart would race, and my breath would grow short. Getting back into the sea seemed impossible—until I decided to confront that fear and join an excursion to Coiba Island.
Coiba is a remote and wild place, surrounded by pristine nature. Getting there is no easy feat: seven hours on the way out and seven hours back, through bumpy roads and stretches of open sea. But I let myself go.
The plan for the trip was a day at sea, snorkeling and visiting small nearby islands. When it was time to board the boat, I felt the panic creeping in. But there was also a flicker of excitement. I took a deep breath and, with a bit of hesitation, set off.
What happened next was surprising. Fear gave way to wonder.
It felt like the person I was before the accident had returned. Getting into the water was incredible: beneath the surface was a vibrant, living world—tropical fish, bright corals, and then, suddenly, a shark. It was majestic and peaceful, swimming just a few meters from me (of course, I knew beforehand it was a harmless species, or no way would I have been that calm!!). Shortly after, I spotted three giant turtles gliding gracefully, along with fish of every shape and color. I felt part of that underwater universe.
Every minute in the water restored my confidence. Not only was I swimming again, but I felt happy. The sea, which had been a symbol of my vulnerability for two years, was once again a place of beauty and freedom.
Beyond the incredible experience at sea, that day also gave me the chance to meet new people—travelers from different parts of the world. We shared stories, laughter, and the exhaustion of the long journey. By the time we returned to shore, I felt light and grateful. Not only had I seen one of the most beautiful corners of the planet, but I had also overcome an inner barrier.
Reconnecting with the sea was more than just a swim—it was reclaiming a part of myself. Coiba Island reminded me that facing our fears, even when it seems impossible, can open the door to a new sense of freedom.
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