Owner`s manual

BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD
2-7
Reading Buoys and Other Markers
The waters of the United States are marked for safe
navigation by the lateral system of buoyage. Simply
put, buoys and markers have an arrangement 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 seaward (the boater is going toward 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 information. 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 geographic
location. Always consult local boating authorities
before riding your boat in unfamiliar waters.
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