Just a couple of thoughts. Here it is a part of the responsability of
all masters to go to the aid of stricken _vessels_ -i.e. whether they
have people on board is irrelevant. The only excuse not to is where your
crew or vessel would be placed in danger by providing aid

Yes, and I determined it would place us in danger (night time with
inexperienced crew in dangerous winds).

I commend you for getting help for it

Thanks.