#
S
AFETY
I
NFORMATION
1-18
Reading Buoys and Other Markers
The waters of the United States are
marked for safe navigation by the lat-
eral system of buoyage. Simply put,
buoys and markers have an arrange-
ment of shapes, colors, numbers, and
lights to show which side of the buoy a
boater should pass on when navigating
in a particular direction. The markings
on these buoys are oriented from the
perspective of being entered from sea-
ward (the boater is going towards the
harbor). Red buoys are passed on your
starboard (right) side when proceeding
from open water into port, and black
buoys are to your port (left) side. An
easy way to remember the meaning
of the colors is the phrase “red right
returning.” When navigating out of the
harbor, your position with respect to the
buoys should be reversed; red buoys
should be to port and black buoys to
starboard.
Many bodies of water used by boaters
are entirely within the boundaries of
a particular state. The Uniform State
Waterway Marking System has been
devised for these waters.
This system uses buoys and signs
with distinctive shapes and colors to
show regulatory or advisory informa-
tion. These markers are white with
black letters and orange borders. They
signify speed zones, restricted areas,
danger areas, and general information.
Remember, markings may vary by geo-
graphic location. Always consult local
boating authorities before riding your
boat in unfamiliar waters.
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