OK, you experienced boat guys who know your stuff...time for another n00b question.

I have no problem with doing the composite calculations to build a panel with the appropriate strength, but I'm suffering from a lack of experience with nautical load estimation. The "regular" loads from weight, wind, crew, etc. are easy to calculate...but what about tricky (and important) things like wave transient loads and the impact of a mast experiencing a pitchpole?

It would seem that a lot of design is done by duplicating the strengths of those who have sailed before and not broken, but are there respected sources of data usable with some math[s]?