How long do you watch before you go help?

I've always appreciated offers of help from more experienced people when I have an issue and try to be as helpful to others when they are struggling. It is IMHO a much better approach than sitting and laughing as another person struggles for whatever reason. I've docked a houseboat for renters that were crossways int the lower reach of a lock. They were very relived. Last winter backed a trailer in for a widow. Her husband had died 6 months earlier. This was her first trip out with her daughter and granddaughter in tow. They were very glad to have the unit in along with a commentary of how to approach.

It seems better to offer help than wait for the person having problems to come and beg.