Born on May 28, 1917, in the Russian town of Vyazma, Teliga’s life journey led him from the tumultuous landscapes of wartime Europe to the vast expanses of the world’s oceans. Despite his origins, he found his true home in Grodzisk Mazowiecki, central Poland, where he spent his formative years and found his passion for sailing.
Teliga’s odyssey began long before he set sail from Casablanca. With his own hands and meager savings, he crafted the yacht “Opty,” a vessel
measuring 9.85 meters in length and 2.75 meters in width with a draft of 1.65 meters and a displacement of 5 tons. This vessel, bearing the name “Opty,” derived from the word “optimist,”
symbolized Teliga’s unyielding optimism in the face of adversity.
He used to say that if he did not gather enough funds to build a yacht, he would build a canoe, call it “Pesy,” derived from the word “pessimism,” and sail it around the Masurian Lake District.
“Opty” boasted a Bermuda yawl rig, featuring wooden masts complemented by stainless fittings and rigging, ensuring durability and reliability. Equipped with sails tailored for all wind conditions, dual water tanks, and an oil tank, it was prepared for extended voyages. Safety was paramount, with provisions including an inflatable raft, an unsinkable dinghy, signaling equipment, and a radio
A grand adventure
Setting sail from Casablanca on January 25, 1967, Teliga embarked on a journey that would take him across the Atlantic to the Canary Islands, Barbados, and through the Panama Canal to the Pacific.
Yet, it was the final leg of his voyage that would etch his name into the annals of maritime history.
Departing from the Fiji Islands on July 29, 1968, he embarked on a remarkable excursion that ultimately broke the world record for the longest journey without touching land, lasting 165 days. During this time, he completed the challenging route of 13,260 miles from the Fiji Islands to Dakar.
During this trip, Teliga came close to running out of some necessary provisions. Fortunately, when sailing close to Cape Town, where political restrictions prevented him from docking, he had an unexpected encounter with a tourist yacht belonging to South Africa.
The yacht’s crew showered Teliga, who at the time was facing shortages of basic necessities, with gifts and essential equipment. Among the gifts were fresh sandwiches and a partially opened pack of cigarettes. Furthermore, he learned that his journey had garnered widespread attention, with many actively searching for him.
On April 5, 1969, Teliga crossed his own path near the Canary Islands, marking the culmination of his epic voyage around the world. It took him 2 years and 2 months to circle the globe.
Despite the accolades and admiration that awaited him, Teliga’s triumph was bittersweet.
Diagnosed with cancer, he succumbed to the illness on May 21, 1970.
Teliga's journey was not just a testament to human endurance but also a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. His name may have faded from the headlines, but his spirit continues to inspire adventurers and dreamers around the world.
