Stand Up for Our Seas began the final day of their journey with some lessons on Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) in Finolhu Maldives.
The fun lessons were followed by a spot of snorkelling just off the coast of the resort island. Relaxed and ready to commence their last leg, the four paddlers finally set off around 1100 hours, heading towards the island of Hithaadhoo.
However, what first appeared to be a deceptively calm and perfect day for paddling, made an unexpected turn, bringing on strong crosswinds.
"It was really, really tough", stressed Dr Claire Petros, revealing that the wind was finally blowing against them as they struggled towards Hithaadhoo.
"We spent the last hour or so going fully against the wind, thinking that the island wasn't getting any closer. You could just see it on the horizon, and I was like, 'Are we even going forward?'", she said with a breathless chuckle.
The team paddled around Hithaadhoo lagoon, taking in the sights before continuing on to their finish line - Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu.