Boat Safety in Japan: A Tragedy and Important Questions
Like many people in Japan and around the world, I was deeply saddened by the recent boating tragedy in Okinawa, where a 17-year-old student and a 71-year-old captain lost their lives.
A number of you have reached out asking questions—especially in comparison to the La Vagabonde incident.
These are very different situations.
In this short video, I share a few immediate thoughts and explain why I’ll be releasing a longer video soon to clarify:
the legal requirements for boats and captains in Japan
what a weather advisory really means
and what good seamanship looks like for everyone on board
This topic is personal for me.
I’m a sailor.
I’m 71 years old.
I’ve served on the board of a high school.
And I’m a grandfather whose grandson goes on school trips.
I’m also recording this while attending a conference on aging here in Tokyo—which adds another layer to how I think about responsibility and judgment.
More to come soon.
In the meantime, my thoughts and prayers are with the families and all those affected.
Japan Solo
Lowell Sheppard: The 71-year-old 'Never Too Later' who traded life in Tokyo for a solo odyssey, transitioning from Pacific ambitions to the Japan Solo longevity project.
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