Re: Second filter
That should be fine given fair winds, and even if not, a skilled sailor would be able to find a way. I have sailed with no modern conveniences. Only basic navigational tools. As for the monster, this is news to me, though it cannot be any worse than facing off with a man-of-war. We may want to add guns to the vessel if it does not already have them.
Interesting. I hope that we find what you are looking for.