Buoyage marks study overview

Recognise lateral, cardinal, danger, safe-water and special marks.

Practise observation and judgement using sailing scenarios. Interactive questions and your device-local progress load when JavaScript is available.

Study points

• In Region A, the designated port-hand lateral mark is red. When entering in the conventional direction it is on the yacht’s port side; returning against that direction puts it on the yacht’s starboard side. Its painted colour and designated channel side do not reverse when the yacht turns around. The green starboard-hand mark is left to port on the outward passage.
• A cardinal mark is named for the quadrant in which safe water lies. Pass north of a north cardinal mark.
• The north cardinal topmark has both cone points upward. Shape and light rhythm reinforce the black/yellow pattern.
• An isolated danger mark is placed on or near a danger; navigable water surrounds it, but clearance must still be checked.
• A safe-water mark indicates navigable water around it and may mark a fairway centre or landfall.
• Special marks are yellow; their purpose is explained by the chart or relevant publications.
• A red lateral mark with a green band is a port-hand mark with a preferred channel to starboard. Check the buoyage direction and chart.
• Use the complete visual and charted information, especially at night, in poor visibility or when colours are uncertain.

Educational revision only. Check current official rules, charts and publications before navigating.