Love sea stories Paul thanks for the OP. I have a similar story but nowhere near a dangerous, well to me it was! I was in my small Melonseed...
On a small lake. No one else was on the lake as it was late October. Nice leisurely sail straight down wind to the far end. As I neared turning around the wind kicked up scaring the bajeebies outa me. I came to attention as I was laying low in the boat just enjoying. I jibed around and headed back. Holy mackerel
Tacking back and forth sitting up on the gunnel. A few times I went straight into the wind just to stop and get my wits about me. Releasing the main just a bit and I was off to the races again. Tacking back and forth for over an hour. Finally I hit the beach. I don't think I was ever so glad to be on Terra firma.
Sailing is so relaxing but then Ma Nature says, "Not so fast buckaroo!!"
I really don't think my life was at danger like blue water sailing but it was enough for me. And actually I was proud of myself for not panicking and being able to sail back. They say if you can sail a small boat you can sail any.