When we checked in with Aleksander Doba last week he was struggling to make headway across the Atlantic. The 70-year old Polish adventurer had set out a few weeks back on his third crossing of that ocean, this time going west to east. But, after paddling for days, he still remained within 100 miles (160 km) of the U.S. coastline and the expedition looked like it could be jeopardy. But now, a little more than a week later, things have taken a turn for the positive and he is making progress at long last.
With the winds, currents, and weather working against him, Doba had decided to paddle further south with the hopes of catching the Gulf Stream, a fast Atlantic current that could help push him along. It was a bit of a desperate measure that he hoped would allow him to finally begin making progress towards Europe, his eventual landing space. Fortunately, his efforts have payed off, and Pole is now firmly surrounded by that current, as a result he is picking up speed and finally headed in the right direction.
Despite finding his way into the Gulf Stream, the challenges of the expedition are far from over. High winds are still making it difficult for Doba and his 23-foot ocean kayak. On previous Atlantic crossings he found himself rowing in circles at times, and that could definitely happen again here. Still, he has shown his grit and determination on past long-distance journeys and that should prove useful once again.
If he is successful in this crossing, Aleksander will have covered approximately 5000 miles (8046 km) and likely have spent 4+ months at sea. He will also turn 71 during the crossing as well, proving that for him, age is just number.
I'll continue to monitor his progress throughout the journey and post updates as the news warrants.
