Final answer:
George avoided floating in the water primarily due to a piece of life-preserver that supported him and allowed him to conserve energy while he was in the sea.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passages provided suggest that George and his companions were trying to survive in treacherous conditions at sea.
George was saved from having to float in water by various means, including physical exhaustion that prevented him from thinking too deeply about his situation, an almost resigned comfort in the thought of drowning, and a piece of life-preserver that supported him in the water.
The life-preserver seemed to play a crucial role, as it supported him in the water and allowed him to rest somewhat while paddling.
Additionally, the presence of the other characters in the water and their actions to survive also contributed to the overall scenario of striving against the elements.