The sailor known for his encounter with the mythical sirens is Odysseus. During his journey home in Homer's "The Odyssey," Odysseus faces the sirens' enchanting song that lures sailors to their doom. To protect himself and his crew, he orders them to plug their ears with wax while he, curious to hear their song, has himself tied to the mast of the ship. This encounter emphasizes themes of temptation and the struggle between desire and self-control.