The Irishman who was rescued by a cargo ship this week while attempting to row across the Indian Ocean alone, has been treated for his injuries and is due to reach land tomorrow morning.
Keith Whelan (29), also known as “the Naked Adventurer,” suffered a head injury when a large wave struck his boat, throwing him across his cabin and causing him to cut his head off a bolt. He stopped the bleeding himself, but decided to seek assistance the following morning.
He contacted a friend in the UK by satellite phone, and Australian authorities diverted a nearby Japanese commercial cargo ship, the Fujisuka, to rescue him.
Medics treated his head injury on board, and the crew of the Fujisuka also lifted his boat onboard, causing a small amount of damage in the process.
Mr Whelan, who rows in the nude to avoid painful chafing from salt crusts that build up on clothing, is due to arrive tomorrow morning in Bunbury, a city 175km north of Perth, where he will hold a press conference.
The story of the naked Irishman in trouble gained international media attention since his story broke.
“Thanks everyone for the lovely messages. Feeling a bit down but I am ok physically,” he told his Twitter followers.
He also pointed out this his problems had not cost Australian taxpayers any money, since he was rescued by a commercial ship.
The freelance events manager from Athy, Co Kildare, is trying to become the youngest man, and first Irishman, to make the 6,000km solo journey across the Indian Ocean.
He is raising funds for the Keep a Child Alive charity, which provides anti-retroviral treatment and support to children and families affected by HIV/Aids in Africa and India.