It was said gorgons were descended from sea gods. It's hard to say whether that is true, but it was clear the ocean was Xanthippe's element. Since she didn't need to breathe underwater—it was a gorgon thing—she could swim underwater the whole way, which was quickler. She was a strong swimmer in her own right, but responding to her desires, the currents pushed her along as well.
It was a good distance and Xanthippe was pleasantly tired as she arrived at the lighthouse, dramatically launching herself out of the water to land on a rocky outcrop. Then, since it was a race, she looked around for Mickey.