I've been following this story for a while. I'm glad that no lives were lost. Still, 40 hours in a raft, in rough seas? That's ugly business.

I don't know the full facts about the Brazilian response. My initial gut response is whiskey-tango-foxtrot, but I know there's always more to the story.

I have heard initial reports that the ship was heading into rough weather under full sail. Speculation or fact, I can't say.

The whole event is surprising, though. My understanding is that these tall ships have a keel so massive that they should bounce back even if the masts are in the water. What gives?

(Full disclaimer: I'm a landlubber, and my opinions are 100% armchair. My experience on tall ships is limited to spilling a drop o'grog on the deck of the Bluenose II, at anchor in Halifax, and a bit over the side too in keeping with tradition. I invite ye olde salts to set me on a straight course.)