When sailing the ocean blue, buoys are an invaluable tool. They assist in navigation by directing ships into shipping channels and away from shoals or crowds.
There are several types of buoys used in maritime navigation, including navigational buoys, mooring buoys, and special purpose buoys. Navigational buoys mark channels, hazards, and other important points on the water. Mooring buoys are used for boats to tie up to, and special purpose buoys serve specific functions, such as weather monitoring or scientific research.
Keep green buoys on your left when heading upstream.
Some red buoys are known as "nun" buoys.(Ref: SB-4)some red buoys are known as nun buoys
Mooring buoys
Nun buoys typically have odd numbers. In the IALA buoyage system, odd-numbered nun buoys are used to indicate the right side of a navigable channel when approaching from seaward. They are usually colored red and have a conical shape. Even-numbered buoys, on the other hand, are used for the left side of the channel and are typically green.
Some red buoys are known as "nun" buoys.(Ref: SB-4)some red buoys are known as nun buoys
Mid channel buoys
Sailing was diffeent
When leaving the harbor, the red buoys should be on your left. When returning, on the right. "Red right returning". So if you are going away from land, the buoys will mark the left side of the channel, toward land, the right.
White lights can be found on various types of buoys, primarily navigational buoys, which help mark channels, hazards, or safe anchorage areas. These lights are often used in conjunction with colored lights to provide specific information to mariners. For example, white lights may indicate a safe passage or be used on mooring buoys to signal their presence, especially in low visibility conditions. Additionally, some regulatory buoys may also feature white lights.
Yellow buoys are weather stations.
Regulatory Buoys.