U.S. Coast Guard
Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (2024)
The official USCG rulebook every skipper should know — and vessels 39.4 ft+ must carry.
Best for
All skippers, especially those on vessels 39.4 ft and over where it is legally required. Essential for anyone preparing for a USCG exam or offshore passage.
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Our Verdict
If you skipper a vessel 39.4 feet or longer, this handbook is legally required aboard. Even if your boat is smaller, knowing the Navigation Rules is fundamental seamanship — and this is the authoritative source straight from the USCG.
What We Like
- Official USCG publication — 2024 edition
- Covers both Inland and International Rules
- Required aboard vessels 39.4 ft and over
- Essential reference for all skippers
- Compact enough to store in the chart table
Watch Out For
- Text-heavy — not a quick reference guide
- Rules can be complex for new boaters
Why You Need It
Federal law requires all vessels 39.4 feet (12 meters) and over to carry a copy of the Navigation Rules aboard. Beyond the legal requirement, understanding the rules of the road is fundamental to safe seamanship — knowing who has right of way can prevent collisions.
What's Inside
The handbook covers both International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and U.S. Inland Navigation Rules. It includes rules for lights, shapes, sound signals, and conduct in restricted visibility — everything you need to navigate safely and legally.
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