Buoys and markers are the "traffic signals" that guide vessel operators safely along some waterways. They also identify dangerous or controlled areas and give directions and information. Learn about the different types and colors of buoys and markers in this section.
These navigation aids mark the edges of safe water areas: for example, directing traffic within a channel. The markers use a combination of colors and numbers, which may appear on either buoys or permanently placed markers.
These mark the edge of the channel on your starboard (right) side as you enter from open sea or head upstream. Numbers usually increase consecutively as you return from open sea or head upstream.
These mark the edge of the channel on your port (left) side as you enter from open sea or head upstream. Numbers usually increase consecutively as you return from open sea or head upstream.
These are placed at the junction of two channels to indicate the preferred (primary) channel when a channel splits. If green is on top, the preferred channel is to the right. If red is on top, the preferred channel is to the left. These can also be referred to as "junction buoys."
These cylindrical-shaped buoys are always marked with green markings and odd numbers. They mark the edge of the channel on your port (left) side when entering from open sea or heading upstream.
These are permanent signs attached to structures, such as posts, in the water. Common daymarks are red triangles (equivalent to nuns) and green squares (equivalent to cans). They also may be lighted.
In most circumstances, you can use this phrase as a reminder of the correct course when returning from open waters or heading upstream.
This system of markers is used on the Mississippi River and its tributaries above Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and on some other rivers that flow toward the Gulf of Mexico. Navigation markers on the Western Rivers System are not numbered. Numbers displayed below daymarks along this system are not associated with the right or left side of the channel; these numbers indicate distance from the river's mouth (except the Ohio River, indicating distance for the headwaters).
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