Peter Picsiotta suggested the following as primary reasons for "show stopper" problems. Health emergency, Navigational error, fire, and running out of coffee (4 because 'running out of coffee' and 'health emergency' are almost synonymous). Dennis replies... First of all, I know from personal observation that Peter is concerned about running out of coffee is because he uses about 18 tablespoons of ground coffee per pot. I could not drink his stuff, but then he could or would not drink mine, made 9 times weaker. In my experience, having a skipper/owner break a femur in the French Toumamotus was a definite "show stopper" incident. Luckily we happened to be on one of the only islands with an air strip, so we could evacuate him to Papeete in shock. Without the airstrip, I don't know what might have happened in a two day sail to Papeete with a person on board in shock, but I'm glad not to have been forced to find out. Another time, on my own small trawler, a transmission breakdown left me truly dead in the water requiring a 25 mile tow down Cayuga Lake. In about 45,000 miles of cruising these are the only two times we've really had to make major changes in our plans. Esther and I are planning on joining Dave and Lowie Bock in the Milt Baker led Med Bound 07 cruise on Salty Dawg, Nordhavn 55/4. We will keep the list informed of the conditions and activities. I've helped Dave set up a new web site for his boat at www.saltydawg.talkspot.com with the cruises of last spring, summer and fall. Also, I'm sure to see some of you at the Charleston AGLCA meeting in April where I am delighted to have been asked to be a presenter. Dennis Dennis Bruckel, Cruising Editor Waterway Guide Albin 27 Sadie B website www.debruckel.com