Are those supposed to be reassuring words?

It is time to get off the water when there is so much going on around you that you are overwelmed.

It is plainly obvious to me when to leave the water. I gauge it on how in control of my boat I am. If I can't trap out anymore because my lines are washing overboard all the time and I can't tack for fear a wave will knock me back, then it is time to pack it in.

You've gotta think about your crew too. The first thing I think of is "if we get in trouble, is this person an asset or a liability". I sail with a lot of new people so it is usually the latter.

[/quote]Are those supposed to be reassuring words? [/quote]

Maybe not reassuring, but just a fact. Look, as others have said, if you don't go out in the rough stuff, you'll never know how much you can handle and when its too rough. No purpose is served by telling stories designed to scare the beejeesus out of someone. You just tell them straight up.

Its all about being prepared. Heck, I can go hit the LA freeways and get in a accident today. Not a reason to stay home all of the time. You just go out prepared. But if something does happen, then you just sit and wait for the police officer - bob until someone gets you.

Would you rather I tell her that if the boat goes over we both die? Now that's reassuring.