The decision to watch the sunset was made at home, thirty-five minutes before the sun officially dipped below the horizon.

Such is the advantage – even with mini adventures – of keeping the broad strokes familiar. The ocean offers sufficient surprises to catch even the most seasoned mariners off balance, occasionally putting them back on their heels, a sensation all too familiar, as Parkinson’s works away at my equilibrium.

If it were balance alone, it wouldn’t be so bad. But, in fate’s uniquely d...