What is the primary purpose of the USCG Rules of the Road?

The primary purpose of the USCG Rules of the Road is to ensure safe navigation and avoid collisions on the waterways. These rules provide a comprehensive framework that governs the interactions between vessels, specifying responsibilities, actions, and signals that must be followed to promote safety at sea. By establishing clear guidelines for how vessels should behave in various situations, such as crossing paths or approaching one another, the rules significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enhance overall maritime safety.

The other options focus on different aspects of maritime activities that, while important, do not capture the core intent of the Rules of the Road. Regulating fishing activities pertains more to resource management rather than navigation safety. Establishing training protocols for mariners is crucial for competency but does not directly address the conduct of vessels on the water. Lastly, determining vessel speed limits in harbors relates specifically to regulatory measures but is only one aspect of a much broader safety framework that encompasses navigation rules.