What are the legal requirements for boat lighting during nighttime operation?

The correct choice emphasizes the necessity for navigation lights to be operational and visible during nighttime operation of a boat. This requirement is in place to ensure the safety of all waterway users. Navigation lights include specific color-coded lights that indicate the direction a vessel is moving and its status—whether it is underway, anchored, or moored. These lights are designed to alert other boaters to the presence and position of a vessel in the dark, helping to prevent collisions and enhance overall safety on the water.

Operational navigation lights must adhere to regulations set forth by the U.S. Coast Guard, which require vessels to display appropriate lights based on their size and type. For example, a powerboat must show a red light on the port side and a green light on the starboard side along with a white stern light. This visibility is crucial not only for the vessel's safety but also for the safety of nearby vessels and individuals.

Other options do not meet the regulations that ensure safety during nighttime navigation. Solely relying on the front light, using only deck lights, or turning off lights completely in the absence of other boats would not provide adequate indication to others on the water, resulting in increased risks of accidents or collisions.