Overview

• The 44-year-old departed from Portugal on Friday evening, heading for French Guiana on a six-meter offshore board.
• Reporting describes him as the first European to attempt an Atlantic crossing on a stand-up paddleboard of this kind.
• After months of preparation, he is using a specially outfitted craft with a small cabin, satellite phone, solar power, a water maker and a hydrophone to record ocean sound.
• Walther says the crossing is not about a sporting record but about motivating people to care for marine and climate protection.
• He acknowledges significant mental and physical risks and says he will end the attempt if he reaches his limits.