I'm stuck on the same part, each time I meat the Indestructible (now up to 11) it's either the booze, herbs or sinking. I've done everything else, is it maybe more likely if you don't have any gifts that you get the item or route advice option?
The probability doesn't change. On the map, look for the ship icon. When the Indestructible offers you a choice, just pick route advice instead of a gift
