What action should a captain take if their vessel is off course according to the GPS?

When a vessel is off course according to GPS, adjusting the heading to return to the intended course is a prudent action. This approach allows the captain to correct the vessel's path efficiently and ensure safe navigation. By making a precise adjustment, the captain can guide the vessel back onto its original route while considering any navigational hazards or conditions that may have contributed to the deviation.

Monitoring the situation is certainly important, but without taking action to adjust the heading, the vessel may continue to stray off course, which can lead to further complications. Similarly, simply recalculating the course might not be necessary if the deviation can be managed through a direct heading adjustment, especially if the intended destination remains the same. Changing direction immediately without assessing the situation could lead to sudden maneuvers that may not be safe, particularly in congested waters or adverse conditions.

Thus, adjusting the heading effectively provides a direct response to bring the vessel back on track, ensuring safe and efficient navigation.