Yacht-sized passenger boat runs aground in high surf off Hawaii beach

## Held My Breath: A Near-Capsize on Open Water

The vast expanse of the ocean is a powerful thing. There’s a humbling beauty in its endless horizon, the constant rhythm of the waves, and the feeling of being truly connected to nature. But that power also demands respect, a lesson I learned firsthand just last week. We nearly experienced a capsize, and the moment has stayed with me ever since.

We were about two hours out, further than I’d typically venture in our small sailboat. The weather had been calm all morning, a gentle breeze filling the sails and pushing us along at a comfortable pace. We were enjoying the sun, the spray of the ocean, and the quiet satisfaction of navigating the open water.

Then, the wind shifted.

What started as a playful gust quickly escalated. The boat heeled over sharply, far more than I was comfortable with. The world suddenly tilted, the water rushing close enough to touch. I remember the distinct feeling of weightlessness, of almost being lifted out of the boat. Fear, cold and sharp, clenched in my gut.

For what felt like an eternity – though I’m sure it was only seconds – we hung suspended at a terrifying angle. The mast strained, the sails groaned, and I held my breath, bracing for the inevitable. The boat appeared to be on the very edge of flipping, a complete capsize seeming imminent.

Then, just as suddenly as it began, the wind eased slightly. Slowly, agonizingly slowly, the boat began to right itself. The angle lessened, the water receded, and we were once again upright, albeit shaken.

It was a sobering experience. We immediately turned back towards shore, the joy of the morning replaced with a palpable sense of unease. The remainder of the journey was quiet, a period of reflection on what had just occurred.

This incident served as a harsh reminder of the unpredictability of the sea and the importance of preparation. It’s renewed my commitment to checking weather forecasts diligently before any trip, understanding my boat’s limits, and practicing emergency procedures. While the near-capsize was frightening, it was also a valuable lesson. The ocean demands respect, and I intend to give it. This event is a reminder to be prepared for the challenges of sailing, and will hopefully prevent similar events in the future.