A Long Wait
The crew tried to approach the fox like a tame animal, holding out their hands and calling the animal to them. This proved to be unsuccessful. After many failed attempts, all they could do was to be patient and wait.
A Feeling Of Helplessness
The fishermen felt helpless at this point because the fox just would not approach them. Yet they knew that the longer they wait the worse the situation could get. They definitely did not want to be caught out at sea at night.