Navigate safer and stay current with the essential Coast Guard rules of the road. This guide features five authoritative references that cover International and Inland Rules, latest publication updates, and practical quick references for navigation lights and day shapes. Each entry provides authoritative guidance from U.S. Coast Guard authors and allied publishers to help mariners interpret COLREGS correctly and apply them on the water.
| Product | Author / Brand | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation Rules And Regulations Handbook (Color Print): Containing – International & Inland Rules | Department of Homeland Security (Author), United States Coast Guard (Author) | Color format with International & Inland rules |
| Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook: PUBLICATION DATE 2025 | Department of Homeland Security (Author), United States Coast Guard (Author), Paradise Cay Publications (Editor) & 1 more | Updated 2025 edition |
| Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (Color Print) | United States Coast Guard (Author), Department of Homeland Security (Author) | Color print edition |
| Navigation Rules And Regulations Handbook: (COLOR PRINT)- International Regulations and U.S. Inland Navigation Rules | Department of Homeland Security (Author), United States Coast Guard (Author) | International & Inland rules in color print |
| Navigation Lights and Day Shapes Quick Reference Guide | NautiCards Store | Waterproof quick-reference with lights and shapes |
Navigation Rules And Regulations Handbook: Color Print — International & Inland Rules

The Color Print edition consolidates International and Inland Rules in a single, accessible format. Authored by the Department of Homeland Security and the United States Coast Guard, this handbook is designed for quick reference and classroom instruction. It emphasizes the practical application of COLREGS on diverse vessel types, including powerboats, sailing vessels, and towing operations. The color layout highlights critical sections for fast lookup during on-the-water decision-making. This edition is suitable for deck officers, harbor masters, and maritime students seeking a compact, authoritative resource.
Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook: Publication Date 2025

This 2025 edition reflects the latest updates to Coast Guard navigation rules and inland regulations. It preserves a practical layout for quick reference in the field, pairing authoritative text with diagrams and examples that illustrate common COLREGS scenarios. The comprehensive scope addresses both international navigational protocols and inland waterway rules, making it valuable for mariners who operate across different waters, as well as training programs and maritime academies.
Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (Color Print)

The color print edition from the U.S. Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security emphasizes visual clarity for onboard reference. Its layout supports quick scanning for rule numbers, vessel responsibilities, and right-of-way principles. This edition is well-suited for captains and crew who need to interpret COLREGS with visual aids while underway, in training environments, or during simulated exercises.
Navigation Rules And Regulations Handbook: (COLOR PRINT) – International Regulations and U.S. Inland Navigation Rules

This color-print reference foregrounds both international navigation rules and U.S. inland navigation rules, helping mariners navigate mixed-water environments. It provides side-by-side comparisons to reduce misinterpretation when approaching vessels in crossing situations, meeting requirements for overtaking, stand-on and give-way scenarios, and special rules for restricted visibility. The compact format makes it practical for onboard use in small crew operations and training labs.
Navigation Lights And Day Shapes Quick Reference Guide

This waterproof quick-reference guide focuses on navigation lights and day shapes as defined by the Coast Guard Rules of the Road. It includes clear diagrams that show masthead lights, sidelights, stern lights, all-around lights, and towing lights. The guide also covers day shapes and their meanings across various vessel types and operating conditions. It is designed for on-deck use, offering a visual aid to support proper vessel identification and actions in different visibility scenarios.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Edition scope: Choose between International & Inland coverage or a focused inland-only resource, depending on your operating waters.
- Format and usability: Color-print editions aid quick reference; waterproof or durable formats suit on-board use in rough weather.
- Authorship and authority: Materials authored or endorsed by the U.S. Coast Guard or Homeland Security tend to align with official standards.
- Updates: For mariners operating in dynamic regulatory environments, prioritize the latest publication date to reflect COLREGS amendments.
- Supplementary aids: Quick-reference guides for lights and day shapes complement full manuals by providing at-a-glance guidance during operations.
- Audience and setting: Consider whether the material is aimed at students, deck officers, or ongoing training programs to match your needs.
- Portability: If you travel between coastal and inland waters, a compact, color-printed handbook can be more convenient than larger volumes.
- Durability: For crew use, look for water resistance, laminated pages, or protective sleeves to extend longevity in harsh environments.
These resources collectively cover the core requirements for understanding and applying the Coast Guard Rules of the Road. When selecting, balance depth of content with format practicality to ensure reliable, safe decisions on the water.