A port or starboard buoy depending on what region you are in
Under the Inland Navigation Rules, a red buoy typically indicates the location of a safe water mark or a channel marker. It is part of the IALA (International Association of Lighthouse Authorities) system, where red buoys are used to indicate the port side of a channel when entering from the sea. In inland waters, red buoys also serve to mark navigational hazards or indicate the edge of a channel. Boaters are expected to keep these buoys on their port (left) side when navigating upstream.
Under the Inland Navigation Rules, a red buoy indicates the right side of a channel when approaching from seaward. It is marked with even numbers and is typically used for marking navigable waters. Vessels should keep red buoys on their right side when proceeding upstream. This system helps ensure safe navigation by guiding vessels along designated channels.
Under the Inland Rules, red buoys should be passed on your starboard side when going upstream. They mark the left hand side (port) of the navigable channel when you are 'outbound,' and they will be on your right had side (starboard) when you are 'inbound.' (RED = RIGHT = RETURN)
When you approach a red buoy, you should keep it on your right side, as red buoys typically indicate the right side of a channel when navigating inland or towards a harbor. This is part of the "red right returning" rule, which helps ensure safe passage through navigable waters. Always be aware of local navigation rules and conditions, as they may vary.
When heading downstream (away from harbor) leave the red buoys to port and the green buoys to starboard.When heading upstream (back in to harbor) it's the opposite: leave the green buoys to port and the red buoys to starboard.
It aids in marking the channel. It marks the port side of the channel when coming inland from the sea.
They should be passed on the starboard side when going upstream.
If they are under an island they are no use at all.
When returning to homeport from seaward and you see a red buoy, you should keep the buoy on your starboard (right) side. This indicates that you are navigating in accordance with the "Red Right Returning" rule, which helps ensure safe passage into the harbor. Make sure to maintain a safe distance from the buoy and be aware of any navigational hazards in the area.
If they are under an island they are no use at all.
A boat should cruise between a green and red buoy. The red buoy will always be located on the right side of your boat. Red buoys will always mean , returning, red, and right. There will be a number on a red buoy that will give the chart location. The numbers will always be even.
You should pass a red navigational buoy on your right side when traveling upstream or returning from sea, which is consistent with the "red right returning" rule. This guideline helps ensure safe navigation and prevents collisions. In contrast, when heading downstream, you would pass the buoy on your left. Always be aware of local navigational rules that may apply.