A Polish adventurer attempting to become the first to kayak from Europe to North America inexplicably waved off a rescue attempt last month after sending out an SOS signal midway through his 5,200-mile journey.

The crew of the commercial tanker called in to give the 67-year-old sea kayaker assistance was incredulous when he refused help.

Aleksander “Olek” Doba, who began his Portugal-to-Florida trek on Oct. 5, lost all communications with his shore team on Dec. 20, according to Canoe & Kayak, which obtained photos of Doba from the tanker.

Click here to read their report.