What does Part E of the COLREGs cover?

Part E of the COLREGs specifically addresses exemptions for certain types of vessels from the regulations set forth in previous sections. It outlines the conditions under which specific vessels may not be required to comply with all the rules, thereby recognizing the unique operational circumstances that certain vessels might encounter, such as naval vessels, vessels engaged in fishing, and vessels not under command. These exemptions are critical for maintaining maritime safety by ensuring that the rules are applied appropriately while considering the operational contexts of diverse vessel types.

In contrast, the other options refer to different parts of the COLREGs: General Rules, which deal with the overall principles and regulations regarding conduct at sea; Conduct of Vessels, which would cover the actions vessels should take to prevent collisions; and Sound Signals, which relate to the acoustic communication rules vessels must use in various situations. Each of these components is vital for safe navigation, but they belong to different sections of the COLREGs and do not fall under Part E.