The water was shallow, warm and clear. I wanted to immerse myself, lay naked on my back and float, watching the few clouds above pass like sleepy sheep. I had, however, three women to find and get back to the ship. I splashed my arms and face as I walked, glancing back to see Uppsee a tiny speck bobbing on waves that barely registered as ocean.

Standing on deep brown sand, I called out to see if Toci, Isobeau and Ruis were within range. No answer came. I called again, deciding to move to my left be...