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The relay began in the early hours of Friday, around 1 a.m., under pitch-dark skies. The first swimmer had to jump into the cold water to start the relay because the boat couldn't reach the land directly. The relay format required each swimmer to follow a strict rotation — each swimming approximately one hour before overtaking the previous swimmer — with the goal of completing the crossing in about 12 hours, though they prepared for up to 15 hours.

Swimmers expressed the psychological challenges, especially the daunting darkness and cold water. The initial fear and uncertainty were palpable, with some admitting to feelings of doubt about their physical ability to complete the swim. Despite this, the team relied heavily on mental fortitude, teamwork, and determination to push forward.