The Daily From The Sunday Read Archives: ‘Alone at Sea’
Jul 11, 2021
Journalist Elizabeth Weil, known for her captivating storytelling, shares the awe-inspiring tale of Aleksander Doba, a Polish adventurer who kayaked solo across the Atlantic three times, even at the age of 71. The discussion delves into Doba's battles with isolation, the relentless challenges of open waters, and the mental resilience required for such extreme adventures. With unique anecdotes from Doba's journeys and insights on the impact of adventure on family life, it’s a heartfelt exploration of what it truly means to pursue life's biggest challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Doba's Third Crossing
- Aleksander Doba, 71, completed his third solo transatlantic kayak trip, arriving in Le Conquet, France.
- He endured 110 days at sea, pushing himself to reach the continent despite exhaustion and hardship.
Embracing Suffering
- Doba viewed suffering as a form of self-determination, finding existential thrill in hardship.
- He regretted moments of succumbing to comfort, like building a fire or eating pancakes.
The Kayak "Virus"
- Doba claimed he was "infected" with the kayaking bug after advising a professor on a Baltic Sea crossing.
- Their joint attempt to kayak the Atlantic failed, leading Doba to design his own boat, the Olo.