Part 7. “If I Only a Box of Deck Screws” Looking back, the sandwiches Fred brought on deck seem more than just lunch. Amid the growing external chaos, they reflect the task-oriented calm that pervaded Restive. We were all now aware that we were in pretty deep stuff, and yet there was not a hint of panic. As with all things on a boat, the captain set the tone.

We initially had to radio the Coast Guard through a boat closer to shore; and after satisfying the bureaucratic requirements (Restive’s registration number, etc.), we were presented two alternatives: a boat, which could get to us in 10-12 hours, or a helicopter sea rescue, whose dangers in current conditions were forcefully emphasized. Moreover, while the rescuers would come to save the crew, they would make no effort to save the boat. Informed that we were still trying to fix the problem, the operator said they would await further updates. George then put out a VHF call to all boats in the area. Three responded immediately, the closest being Sparky, a 42-foot sloop seven miles ahead. Her captain immediately reversed course and radioed they would be there in about an hour.

Meanwhile, David and Dave had the wheel off and were trying to stabilize the rudder directly, first using the emergency tiller, and when that failed, using ropes, hammering makeshift wedges – anything to keep the rudder from swinging wildly. The waves snapped every effort like a dry twig.

"If I only had a box of deck screws," said Dave, "I could fix this thing."