Under which circumstances do the Rules of the Road apply?

The Rules of the Road, established by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the United States Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), are designed to promote safe navigation and prevent collisions at sea. These rules apply universally in all waters that are navigable by seagoing vessels, which encompasses oceans, seas, and navigable rivers and lakes.

This broad scope ensures that regardless of the specific waterway or geographical area, mariners are governed by a consistent set of rules that help maintain order and safety on the water. This is crucial because vessels from different regions often interact in shared maritime environments, and having a uniform set of rules for navigation promotes safety and clarity for all operators.

The other options do not encompass the full applicability of the Rules of the Road. For instance, limiting the rules to only inland waters or specific harbors would not address scenarios where vessels operate in mixed environments, including international waters where commercial and recreational traffic coexists. Additionally, the rules are not confined to daylight hours; they are in effect around the clock, ensuring that mariners maintain situational awareness and take necessary precautions regardless of visibility.