Hi Stephen , You may not have to worry , the weather being what it has of late . If the " Beast " can't swim it's dead in the water . And this leads a promp for Alie and Sues post ! The Challenge cannot be addictive ! . If it is too wet as i discovered on my six crossings . I may return , but by choice . Just a thought . That it is worth doing is without doubt ! . wh 2006 - 2012 one gap year . You addressed your fears before , ( mine were rats in a bothie ) you can do it again . enjoy bill h. ps the " solo " aspect is the defining point .