After nearly two months away from the ocean, Ulysses finally found his way back.

The sea turtle was released at Baia Flaminia in Pesaro, Italy, after recovering at the Riccione Sea Turtle Rescue Center.

Ulysses had been rescued off the coast of Cesenatico after he was accidentally caught in a trawl net. He was brought to the centre, where he received care until he was healthy enough to return to the sea.

Italian cosmetics company La Saponaria “adopted” Ulysses, helping cover the cost of his treatment and recovery.

Footage posted on July 23 captured the moment his time in human care came to an end. Ulysses made his way across the sand, entered the water and disappeared beneath the surface before swimming into the sunrise.

“May the sea be your friend,” read the caption accompanying the video.

Fondazione Cetacea, which operates the rescue centre, called the release an important achievement. The organization said Ulysses’ recovery showed how businesses, community partners and residents can work together to protect marine biodiversity.

Bagno Joe Amarena and the Pesaro restaurant Da Ani also provided hospitality and support for the release.

Ulysses’ return offered a hopeful ending to a close call at sea. After nearly two months of treatment, the turtle left the beach under his own power and headed back to open water — right where he belongs.