Aleksander Doba was not your typical adventurer. At an age when most people are easing into retirement, he embarked on a grueling solo journey across the Atlantic. In 2017, at the age of 70, Doba rowed over 5,000 miles from Le Conquet, France, to the shores of New York City, facing fierce storms, powerful ocean currents, and the unimaginable isolation of the open sea. For 110 days, he battled not only the elements but also his own limits, proving to the world that age is no barrier to extraordinary achievement. Doba’s voyage not only marked him as a pioneer in adventure but also as a source of inspiration for generations of explorers.
Early Life and the Spark of Adventure
Aleksander Doba was born in Swarzędz, Poland, in 1946, a post-war era in which resources were scarce, and life was simple. Yet even as a child, he harbored an adventurous spirit, drawn to the natural world around him. This early fascination with exploration became a driving force in his life, one that he would carry through his career and into his later years.
His first love was not the open ocean, but the skies. Doba initially pursued an education in mechanical engineering, and in his youth, he became a glider pilot. But his destiny would lead him in a different direction — toward the water. In his thirties, he discovered kayaking and immediately felt a deep connection to it. This passion for kayaking would be the springboard for his later expeditions and his legendary transatlantic row.
Doba’s early excursions were not merely a test of endurance but also an exploration of self. In Poland, he completed countless journeys on rivers, lakes, and even ventured out into the Baltic Sea. But these expeditions were just the beginning for Doba, whose thirst for adventure grew with each outing. The world would soon witness his insatiable drive and unparalleled resilience.
The First Atlantic Crossing: Poland to Florida
Doba first made international headlines in 2010 when he embarked on his first transatlantic rowing expedition. Unlike traditional rowers who often have support teams and follow specific routes designed for safety, Doba chose a path less traveled. He set out from Dakar, Senegal, aiming to reach Brazil, but he changed course and ended up in Florida — completing a staggering journey of over 3,300 miles in 99 days.
This was not just a voyage across the Atlantic; it was a test of survival. Doba faced rogue waves, sharks, equipment malfunctions, and extreme weather. Despite the dangers, he persevered. His kayak was specially designed to withstand the pressures of the open ocean, equipped with a small cabin where he could take brief rests and protect himself from the elements. Still, there was no avoiding the physical toll of rowing for 12 hours a day or the psychological strain of isolation.
In those months alone on the water, Doba forged an intimate relationship with the ocean. He marveled at its beauty, respected its power, and learned to navigate its vast, unpredictable expanse. This journey proved that Doba was more than just an adventurer; he was a man capable of enduring and thriving in extreme conditions. By the time he reached Florida, he had accomplished a feat few could even dream of. But for Doba, the journey was far from over.
The Epic Voyage to New York
In 2017, Doba embarked on what would be his most ambitious journey yet: a 5,000-mile solo row from Le Conquet, France, to New York City. At the age of 70, this was a staggering challenge, pushing his body and mind to their absolute limits. For 110 days, he rowed through some of the Atlantic’s most treacherous waters, battling brutal storms and powerful currents that often forced him off course. His body suffered from blisters, sores, and constant muscle fatigue, yet he pressed on with unwavering determination.
Doba’s kayak, a custom-made vessel named “Olo,” became his home, shelter, and refuge from the relentless elements. Designed to handle the Atlantic’s harsh conditions, it was equipped with storage for food and supplies, navigational equipment, and a small sleeping cabin. But even with such a vessel, there was no way to avoid the challenges of a journey as daunting as this one.
The Atlantic was unforgiving. On several occasions, Doba found himself at the mercy of storms that left him unable to row for days. He was tossed about by massive waves and nearly capsized on more than one occasion. Each time, he steadied himself, focused on his goal, and pushed forward. His resolve was tested daily, and each day, he chose to continue.
For sustenance, Doba relied on dehydrated meals and stored water, supplementing his diet with the occasional fish he managed to catch. Life on the ocean became a rhythm, a balance between physical exertion and moments of rest. The isolation was intense, and he often found himself talking to the ocean, to the birds, or even to his kayak, finding comfort in these small connections.
The Mental Battle: Overcoming Loneliness and Isolation
Perhaps the greatest challenge Doba faced on his Atlantic crossings was not physical but psychological. The sheer loneliness of spending over three months without human contact was a trial that few can comprehend. Days blended into nights, and the passing of time became meaningless. In the vastness of the ocean, Doba was a solitary figure, dwarfed by the immensity around him.
To combat the loneliness, Doba focused on the routine of rowing, setting small goals to keep himself motivated. He maintained a journal, recording his thoughts and experiences, which helped him stay grounded. At times, he played his harmonica, letting the music fill the silence. For Doba, these small acts became lifelines, keeping him connected to his humanity even as he faced the isolation of the sea.
Doba’s mental resilience was a crucial factor in his success. He had trained himself to handle solitude through years of exploration and adventure, but the Atlantic was a different challenge altogether. He learned to embrace the solitude, to find peace in the quiet moments, and to appreciate the ocean’s beauty despite its dangers. This journey wasn’t just about physical endurance; it was a testament to the power of the human spirit to find strength in the face of overwhelming odds.
An Inspiration for Adventurers Worldwide
Aleksander Doba’s journey to New York became a symbol of resilience and determination, inspiring adventurers and dreamers around the world. His achievements resonated deeply, not only because of the physical feat but because of the message he carried: that adventure has no age limit, and that life’s greatest challenges are worth pursuing, no matter the risk.
In recognition of his accomplishments, National Geographic named Doba their 2015 Adventurer of the Year, an honor that acknowledged his courage and pioneering spirit. This accolade brought his story to an even wider audience, inspiring people of all ages to embrace adventure, push their limits, and chase their dreams.
Doba’s story also brought attention to the sport of ocean rowing, a niche but growing field in the adventure community. His success has inspired others to take on similar challenges, and he has become a mentor figure for young adventurers looking to make their mark on the world.
Legacy and Final Journey
Tragically, Aleksander Doba passed away in 2021 at the age of 74 while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. He died doing what he loved — pushing his limits and embracing the thrill of adventure. His legacy, however, continues to live on in the hearts of those he inspired. His life story serves as a reminder that true adventure lies not in conquering nature but in understanding oneself.
Doba’s achievements redefined what it means to be an adventurer. He showed that age is not a barrier to pursuing one’s passions and that life’s greatest challenges are often the most rewarding. His story is a beacon of hope for anyone who dreams of exploring the world, proving that with courage, determination, and resilience, anything is possible.
Final Thoughts: A Life Lived to the Fullest
Aleksander Doba’s life was a celebration of the human spirit. He lived with passion, courage, and a relentless desire to explore. His journey from Poland to New York, across 5,000 miles of unforgiving ocean, was not just a feat of endurance but a testament to what it means to truly live. For Doba, adventure was not a pastime; it was a way of life.
As we look back on his remarkable achievements, we are reminded that the world is vast, and the limits we set for ourselves are often far smaller than what we’re capable of. Doba’s story encourages us to break through those limits, to embrace the unknown, and to pursue the adventures that set our souls on fire. Whether on land, in the sky, or across the ocean, Doba’s legacy will continue to inspire adventurers for generations to come.
