Capt. Mark East’s Advice to the Careworn, Confused, Lovelorn and Other Outdoor People

Dear Capt. East,
For several years now, four of us, 2 couples, go off on a long cruise in our friends 42' sailboat from Cape Cod to the Bahamas. Because he owns the boat, he maintains he shouldn’t have to stand a watch at night. What do you think??
Signed, Sleepy on Watch

Dear Sleepy On Watch,
This is not easy to answer. It’s their boat and you are a guest. On the other hand, most boats I’ve ever cruised on, the watches were divvied up equally. If it really becomes a problem, perhaps you could pilot a crooked course for a couple of nights and say you “fell asleep” from being overtired. Have a talk with him before you “jump ship.”

Dear Mr. Capt. Mark,
I’ve been crew on fish draggers since I was 15 years old. Never did finish high school cause I made more than most of my classmates who stayed ashore. This work has caused me a lot of body hurt but I have no health insurance and no retirement. I’m beginning to get worried. Any suggestions.
Signed, Wearing Down

Dear Wearing Down,
Don’t feel lonely in your predicament. Unfortunately, there are many thousands of citizens today who are in virtually the same circumstances as yourself. If you were in the military, you should speak to the VA. Also check through your Social Security number what your Social Security situation is. Check also with Medicare and/or Medicaid. If you have no luck, you might want to check into emigrating to Cuba. They have free services there I’m told.