Malibu Boats 2 MXZ, User Manual

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There are two primary marking systems in use in the U.S.: the Uniform State Waterway
Marking System (USWMS), used on inland waters and maintained by each state, and the
Federal Waterway Marking System (FWMS), used on coastal waters and rivers and
maintained by the USCG. In addition, the FWMS has two modified systems: the Western
River Buoyage, and the Intercoastal Waterway Buoyage. Be sure to check with local
authorities on the buoyage system in use in your boating region.
The type of hazard/warning buoys and markers depends on the area of jurisdiction. Check
with local boating authorities.
USWMS System
In the USWMS Lateral System, well-defined channels are marked with red and black
buoys, and the boat should pass between them.
The USWMS Cardinal System is used when there is no well-defined channel or where an
obstruction may be approached from more than one direction. With the cardinal system:
• Pass north or east of BLACK-TOPPED WHITE buoy.
• Pass south or west of RED-TOPPED WHITE buoy.
• RED and WHITE VERTICALLY STRIPED buoy indicates boat should pass outside
of the buoy (away from shore).
FWMS System
The FWMS Lateral System is for use on navigable waters except Western Rivers and
Intercoastal Waterways. The markings on these buoys are oriented from the perspective of
being entered from seaward (the boater is going toward the port). This means that red
buoys are passed on the starboard (right) side of the vessel when proceeding from open
water into port, and green buoys to the port (left) side.
The right side (starboard) of the channel is marked with RED, even numbered buoys. The
left (port) side of the channel is marked with GREEN, odd numbered buoys.
The middle of the channel is marked with RED and WHITE vertically striped buoys; pass
close to these buoys.
Spherical Safe Water Marker
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