I wrote a short story some years ago titled "Gorgo" (Italian for Whirlpool/Maelstrom). I was really terrified while writing it. The story was very similar to yours, kevnj. I did it for a company selling marine clothing, they sold it along the clothes and the story sold all too well among sea-people (so I really think there's something fascinating and awe-inspiring in this really "uncontrollable force"). Then, of course, there is "Maelstrom" by Edgar Allan Poe... Again, great theme, Scott. S.