How to Navigate Through Buoys
There is nothing better than spending a lazy summer afternoon boating on the open seas. But just because you are in open water, doesn't mean there aren't a few rules to follow; especially when it comes to buoys. Here are a few tips on how to navigate them on your next boating adventure.
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Instructions
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Leave mooring and fishing buoys alone. There are three types of buoys, mooring, fishing and navigational. A mooring is a buoy that is weighted to the ground. People often pay a license fee to be able to tie up to this kind of buoy in a cove or marina. Unless it's yours, leave it alone. The same with a fishing buoy which usually marks things such as lobster and crab traps. Those are licensed buoys and you can find yourself having an argument with a fisherman if you mess with his lines. Only concern yourself with navigational buoys when boating. Think of these as road signs.
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Learn about green buoys. These buoys are often numbered with odd numbers. When returning from sea, you want to keep these on your port (left) side. Also be sure to adhere to a speed limit when inside the cove so as not to cause a wake.
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Educate yourself about red buoys. Conversely, these are usually numbered with even numbers and are to be kept on your starboard (right) side when returning from sea. Again, adhere to the speed limit within a cove.
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Watch for daymarks. These are very similar to buoys and adhere to the same logic when it comes to numbering and color. However, they are found in a piling shape and signify shallow water. When returning from sea, never go between two daymarks with your boat as you navigate.
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Be mindful of the tide as you navigate through buoys. This is especially important with sailboats. You may need to cut across, or against the tide if it is moving forcefully toward the buoy. Slow and steady wins the race here. Speed will only leave less room for mistakes.
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Tips & Warnings
When in the Atlantic, people have a helpful catch slogan; Red Right Return. This reminds you to keep the red buoy on your right as you return from sea.
If you are navigating your boat in the dark, be on the look out for red and green lights atop the buoys.
Always practice safe boating when on the open water. Remember operating your boat while intoxicated is a crime.
