Five go swimming

Aim

Five Go Swimming are raising money for the Ionian Environment Foundation

Albania Overboard is a 3 km charity sea swim, coast to coast, from Albania to Corfu.

We are Rhona and Andrea (mother and daughter), Juliet, Kate and Rachel, also known as Five Go Swimming. We aim to have fun whether we go at the pace of a sea hare or an ocean tortoise and would love to invite you to support us.

The funds raised by the swim will turbocharge the actions of the Ionian Environment Foundation’s marine conservation projects. The funds raised this year will champion four vital marine conservation projects, all dedicated to preserving the long-term viability and resilience of the beautiful Ionian Sea we swim across. 

The projects all promote the long-term viability and health of the beautiful Ionian Sea through which we will swim from one country to another. We can't wait and are grateful for any support you can give. the swim takes place on Saturday 6th September very early in the morning. Here is some more information about the projects.

Marine Mammal Strandings Response Network

Strandings of whales, dolphins and marine mammals in general are on the rise as many human activities disrupt the natural behaviours and migratory patterns of these animals. We’re training responders and creating a dedicated network in the Ionian Islands to provide rapid rescue, rehabilitation, and crucial research to safeguard these majestic creatures. 

Protection of the Mediterranean Monk Seal

The Mediterranean monk seal is one of the most vulnerable marine mammals, with fewer than 1.000 individuals remaining in the Mediterranean. Our research and protection initiatives are securing vital resting caves and expanding conservation efforts along North Corfu’s coastline.

Ionian Dolphin Project

Dolphin populations face growing threats from habitat destruction and fishing gear entanglement. The Ionian Dolphin Project has been monitoring and protecting these intelligent marine mammals for over 30 years, gathering vital data to drive conservation efforts. 

Sustainable Sailing

While practiced by many sea lovers, recreational boating can harm the marine environment and coastal communities through pollution, disposal of plastic waste, and the destruction of marine habitats. The Ionian region has seen a huge growth in boats available for charter. Still, very limited information is available for users on sustainable sailing practices. We’re educating sailors, promoting plastic reduction, and the importance of ecological mooring to protect Posidonia meadows.

With every stroke, we are driving real impact!

This project successfully funded on 27th October 2025