What should a boater do if they encounter bad weather?

When encountering bad weather, seeking shelter and safe harbor is the safest and most responsible action a boater can take. Bad weather can lead to dangerous conditions such as high winds, rough seas, and reduced visibility, all of which can compromise the safety of the boat and its passengers. By heading for a safe harbor, boaters can secure their vessel and wait out the storm in a protected area, which significantly reduces the risk of capsizing or running into other hazards.

The options of ignoring the weather and continuing on course could lead to dire consequences, as conditions may rapidly worsen. Speeding up to outpace the storm is typically not effective, as storms can often move faster than a vessel can travel. Lastly, only checking the weather after docking is impractical and defeats the purpose of planning ahead for safe navigation. Therefore, the best course of action is always to seek shelter and ensure safety when adverse weather conditions arise.