BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Module 05 - Navigating the Waterways

Aids to Navigation

‘Aids to Navigation’ are systems of buoys and markers that assist boaters to plot their position and course of direction on nautical charts. You can think of navigation aids as ‘road signs’ on the water. It’s illegal to disobey these buoys and markers, as they help provide a safe route for boating trips.

What is a Buoy?

A buoy is a floating marker or symbol which is affixed to the bottom of a waterway or mounted on a feature (such as an island) of the waterway.

Buoys serve four main functions:

To provide warnings.
To provide information.
To mark underwater hazards.
To provide a system for navigation.

Buoy/Marker Shapes:

'Nun': These are buoys with a pointed top that are always red in color. They must always be kept on the starboard (right) side of your boat when you’re heading upstream.

'Can': These are buoys with a flat top that are always green in color. They must be kept on the port (left) side of your boat when you’re heading upstream.