This boating incident with the NFL players raises the question of when would it be appropriate to leave a capsized boat (violating a prime safety rule) and attempt to swim to shore? I'm sure many of the people on this forum would do just fine only a mile from shore in reasonable seas, and I'm also sure some would feel safe going for it at even longer distances. I'm curious, what's your threshold?
Former Member
Famous big wave surfer Eddie Aikau disappeared at sea when the Polynesian voyaging canoe Hokulea capsized and he left on a surfboard to paddle to land, only a few miles away through fairly warm water. Eddie was famous for going out on huge days on Oahu's north shore and chalked up more than a few rescues of less accomplished watermen. They've named a select, invitation only, big wave surf contest "The Eddie" and you see bumper stickers all over the islands saying "Eddie would go!" But, as Jim pointed out, there is a prime rule of boating safety and a better bumper sticker would be,
"Eddie should have stayed with the boat."
