The state of visibility should be a determining factor when deciding what?

Visibility is a critical factor in determining a safe operating speed for a vessel. When visibility is poor, whether due to fog, rain, darkness, or any other condition, operators must reduce their speed to ensure they can react promptly to any hazards or obstacles that may be present in the water. Operating at a slower speed allows for better control of the vessel and provides the crew and passengers more time to assess the environment and make safer navigational decisions.

While factors like anchor placement, choice of vessel, and life jacket type are also important considerations when operating a vessel, they are not directly influenced by visibility conditions in the same way. Safe operating speed is fundamentally linked to the ability to perceive surroundings and react appropriately, which is why visibility plays such a crucial role in this decision-making process.