Oliver Widger, a 29-year-old from Oregon, quit his job and used his retirement savings to sail to Hawaii with his cat, Phoenix.
After weeks at sea, he was greeted Saturday by cheering fans and Hawaii Gov. Josh Green at the Waikiki Yacht Club.
Widger, diagnosed with a paralysis-risk syndrome four years ago, left his managerial job with $10,000 debt, taught himself to sail via YouTube, and shared his journey with over 1 million TikTok and 1.7 million Instagram followers, the Associated Press has reported.
He faced challenges, including a failed rudder, but also enjoyed sights like dolphins, whales, and calm seas.
Widger plans repairs and may continue sailing to French Polynesia.
Written by B.C. Begley
