I once smoked mullein (verbascum thapsis) rolled like a cigarette. I was surprised how light and soothing the smoke was. It is said to act as an expectorant (helps you cough up gunk) and, topically, is soothing to skin.
I think that would be a good candidate for vaporization. Maybe you could get the expectorant effect without taking in carcinogenic smoke.
Sailing stories always become a little more dramatic with each retelling. An orca 15 feet above you on a small boat would be awesome and terrifying in a way units of measure cannot express.