Abstract: This study assessed the compliance with local and international safety regulations for marine vessels operating in Tanzania inland waters. Focusing on Lake Victoria, the study involves a total of 80 respondents including vessel operators, governmental officials, maritime safety inspectors, vessel crew members and maritime regulatory officer. The study employed a mixed-methods approach using structured questionnaires, interviews, and documentary review. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to uncover compliance trends and deficiencies in regulatory enforcement. Findings reveal high awareness and engagement with safety regulations but also highlight major challenges such as limited financial resources, insufficient training, and regulatory capacity gaps. Statistical analyses, including regression and reliability tests, support the presence of strong awareness but identify inconsistencies in enforcement. The results indicated that although awareness of safety regulations is quite high over 60% of respondents showed familiarity with both local and international safety standards compliance is frequently obstructed by logistical and financial challenges. More than 80% of participants acknowledged the significance of inspections, yet inconsistent enforcement and a lack of follow-up were identified as major deficiencies. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for enhancing compliance and safety standards, including targeted training, enhanced inspection practices, and greater regulatory resourcing.