So you're less likely to be pinned on an unfriendly shore. That of course has is hairy exceptions ;^))).

The Pacific Coast (especially heading north) is a lot more difficult -- tough currents, winds that blowing into the steep shoreline, and harbors that are often spaced farther apart.

The name "Pacific" seems a misnomer to me -- but those barberous Spainards were pretty romantic when they picked a name, were a little cynical, or were just trying to sell oceanfront real estate or cruise line tickets ;^))). I've always found the Pacific more awesome than "passive".