Question

Why does Gonzalo the old courtier hope that the ship will not sink?

Answer 1

Gonzalo the old courtier hoped that the ship will not sink. He was very annoyed with the Boatsman and wanted him to be hanged. He said that the Boastman has been born only to die by being hanged. And if this is his destination he will surely not die of drowning. When the boatsman doesn't die of drowning its pretty clear that the ship will not sink in the sea and everyone's life would be saved.