An Australian warship has rescued Lithuanian adventurer Aurimas Mockus, who had been stranded in the Coral Sea for three days after encountering a tropical cyclone while attempting a solo row across the Pacific Ocean.
Mockus, 44, had been rowing nonstop from San Diego to Brisbane, Australia, when he hit a dangerous storm, Tropical Cyclone Alfred, in the early hours of his journey. His boat was unable to withstand the fierce winds and rough seas, leaving him stranded approximately 460 miles east of Mackay, Queensland.
On Friday, Mockus activated his emergency beacon after encountering 50 mph winds and rough seas. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority coordinated the rescue, dispatching a plane that made contact with the adventurer on Saturday. Despite being fatigued, Mockus reported that he was in good spirits, although his boat had sustained significant damage. Only two oars and some personal items were recovered.
The Royal Australian Navy’s landing ship HMAS Choules was dispatched to bring Mockus aboard. He is currently undergoing a medical assessment, according to Vice Admiral Justin Jones. The ship is now heading south with Mockus on board, taking him to Sydney, New South Wales, as the cyclone continues to move southward.
Mockus, who began his 7,500-mile journey from California in October, was aiming to become one of the few people to row across the Pacific Ocean solo and nonstop. The storm has delayed his journey, but his resilience has earned him a place in the annals of extraordinary adventurers.
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