How should you handle a situation when you see a capsized vessel?

When encountering a capsized vessel, approaching with caution, offering assistance, and ensuring safety first is the appropriate course of action. This response is rooted in the responsibility boaters have to one another on the water. Assisting others in distress is crucial, as a capsized vessel may indicate that individuals are in danger or need immediate help.

Approaching cautiously allows you to assess the situation without endangering yourself or others. It's vital to be aware of potential hazards in the water or the environment that could affect both your vessel and those in distress.

Offering assistance is not just an ethical duty; it is often legally required under certain circumstances. By ensuring that you prioritize safety, you prevent making the situation worse and protect both yourself and the people in the capsized vessel. This approach embodies good seamanship and reinforces the importance of community and safety among boaters.

The other options do not adequately address the seriousness of a capsized vessel situation. Ignoring the incident dismisses the potential risk to human life and is contrary to the boating community's safety practices. Speeding past could create more hazards, and calling for help at the nearest marina, while potentially useful, does not actively contribute to immediate assistance, which is necessary when lives may be at stake.