When is it legal to operate a boat at night?

Operating a boat at night is primarily governed by safety regulations, which emphasize the importance of visibility to prevent accidents. Using proper navigation lights is crucial when boating after dark because they help other vessels see your boat and help you see other boats and navigational aids clearly. This requirement is in place to ensure that all boats can be seen on the water, reducing the risk of collisions.

Without these lights, a boat is not only hard to see but also operates outside the legal framework designed to keep all mariners safe. Thus, option B is the correct choice, as it highlights the necessity of having the appropriate navigation lights for safe nighttime boating.

The other options do not effectively address the legal requirement for nighttime operation. For instance, a full moon may provide some visibility, but it does not negate the need for navigation lights. Similarly, departing from a dock does not inherently make nighttime boating safe without proper lighting. Lastly, fishing at night does not exempt a boater from the requirement to use navigation lights. Safety on the water at night hinges on visibility, which is why navigation lights are mandated.