Understanding the Different Types of Navigation Marks on the Water
Navigation marks on the water are an essential part of sailing. They can help you navigate through the channels, identify potential hazards, and ensure the safety of your boat. Understanding the different types of navigation marks is crucial for any sailor.
In this article, we will discuss the various types of navigation marks that you may encounter while sailing. We will cover their meanings, shapes, and colors, so you will be fully prepared for your next sail.
Types of Navigation Marks
There are two main types of navigation marks on the water: lateral and non-lateral marks.
Lateral marks are designed to indicate the direction of the safe water. They are placed on either side of the channels to help you navigate through them. There are two types of lateral marks: port and starboard.
Port lateral marks indicate the left-hand side of the channel when you are facing upstream. They are cylindrical in shape, have a red color on top, and have a green color on the bottom.
Starboard lateral marks indicate the right-hand side of the channel when you are facing upstream. They are conical in shape, have a green color on top, and have a red color on the bottom.
Non-lateral marks, on the other hand, provide information about the waterways such as speed limits, anchorage zones, or restricted areas. These marks come in different shapes and colors, depending on their purpose.
Shapes and Colors of Navigation Marks
Navigation marks come in various shapes, and each one has a specific meaning. Here are the most common shapes of navigation marks:
- Pillar or column shape: This shape is typically used for port and starboard lateral marks. It helps the boater quickly identify the direction of the channel.
- Can or cylindrical shape: This shape is commonly used for non-lateral marks such as speed restrictions or no-wake zones.
- Spar or conical shape: This shape is commonly used for starboard lateral marks.
- Diamond shape: This shape is commonly found in special purpose non-lateral marks, where information like safe anchorage, or a dive area is conveyed to boaters.
The colors used on navigation marks are also significant. The primary colors used for-navigation marks are red, green, yellow, and white. Here is what each of these colors signifies:
- Red: Indicates port (left) side of the channel. Typically used on top of port lateral marks.
- Green: Indicates starboard (right) side of the channel. Typically used on top of starboard lateral marks.
- Yellow: This color is used for special-purpose marks, such as information on floating docks.
- White: Used for non-lateral marks, such as anchorage zones.
Conclusion
Navigation marks are essential, and every sailor must understand their meanings, shapes, and colors. Being able to identify these marks can help you navigate the waterways safely and avoid potential hazards. As you continue your sailing journey, make sure to keep an eye out for these marks and use them to your advantage. Remember to stay safe and have fun on the water!