Navigating the seas with confidence and precision is paramount for mariners, making a thorough understanding of buoyage systems indispensable. Our comprehensive revision notes on buoyage, tailored for MCA orals and RYA course candidates, delve deep into the intricacies of the IALA A and B systems. From the critical lateral marks guiding vessels through busy shipping lanes to the specialized buoys marking unique hazards and safe waters, these notes equip mariners with the knowledge needed to interpret and respond to maritime aids to navigation effectively. By mastering these details, candidates can approach their exams with assurance, ready to demonstrate their proficiency in safe and efficient navigation.
General
Which region am I in?
Look for top mark – cone or square
You see a Preferred channel to Port – when inbound
- Alter course to Port, pass starboard side
What are your actions if you sight a buoy where it should not be?
Check position and verify
Do nav risk assessment
Inform master
Check if chart fully up to date
Check latest nav warnings
Describe lateral marks in region B?
port lateral marks and lights are coloured green. IALA B starboard lateral marks and lights are coloured red.
What does a lateral mark indicate?
Lateral marks indicate the port and starboard sides of navigable channels. These are used in accordance with the direction of buoyage for the region or specific location, as indicated on marine charts.
What does a special Mark signify?
Special marks are not intended primarily as navigation marks. They are used to mark the boundaries of areas used for recreation eg water skiing or bathing, as racing marks and also for naval activities such as gunnery ranges. Special marks are coloured yellow and can be a variety of shapes.
What can cardinal marks indicate?
the deepest water in an area
the safe side on which to pass a danger
a feature in a channel such as a bend, junction or an end of a shoal.
You see a Preferred Channel to Starboard – when in bound
- Alter course to starboard, pass port side
You see a Preferred channel to Port – when outbound
- Alter course to starboard, pass port side
You see a Preferred channel to Port – when outbound
- Alter course to starboard, pass port side
Describe lateral marks in region A?
port lateral marks and lights are coloured red. Starboard lateral marks and lights are coloured green.
What does a Isolated danger mark mean?
Isolated danger marks are used to indicate a single hazard, such as a wreck, which has navigable water all around it. Vessels should keep well clear of the mark on all sides. They are coloured black with red bands and have two black balls above each other on the top of the mark.
What are the features of a cardinal mark?
Top mark: black double cones, clearly separated
Black and yellow horizontal bands. Bands position relative to respective cardinal points
Light: White light, distinguished by specific group of flashes
You see a Preferred channel to starboard – when outbound
- Alter course to port, pass starboard side
What can cause issues with buoys positions?
Moved or bumped by vessel
Moved by wind or current – poor holding
Maintenance / relocated for works
Where is region A buoyage?
Worldwide except North and South America, Japan and the Philippines
Where is region B buoyage?
North and South America, Japan and the Philippines
What does a safe water mark mean?
Safe water marks indicate there is safe water all around the mark. They are used at the start of a buoyed channel when approaching a harbour from the sea. They coloured with red and white vertical stripes
What are the features of a special mark?
Yellow buoy
Yellow light, any rhythm not used for white light
Buoyage recognition
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