What is the primary purpose of the COLREGS rules?

The primary purpose of the COLREGS (Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) is to ensure safe navigation and prevent collisions between vessels. These rules establish a framework for mariners to follow, providing clear protocols and guidelines on how to behave in various navigational situations. By outlining responsibilities and actions that must be taken in specific scenarios, the COLREGS help to mitigate the risks of maritime accidents, thereby enhancing safety at sea.

In this context, while maintaining vessels, regulating fishing practices, and improving fuel efficiency are important aspects of maritime operations, they do not fall under the primary mission of the COLREGS. The focus of these rules is fundamentally on navigation, right-of-way, and ensuring that vessels can operate safely in shared waters, preventing conflicts and accidents that could arise from human error or miscommunication.