The main disaster that happens is when a Tempest comes and then a whirlpool is created which capsizes the boat and kills almost every one on the boat. The device of reading a message in a bottle is popular because the thought in your mind would be where did it come from and why did it come to me. Also the excitement of opening the bottle and not knowing what the message in would intrigue you. My favorite quote would have to be "Almighty God! See! See!" because it showed the true fear of the man in the water