What are the colors/topmarks of different types of buoys?

Colors/Topmarks of Different Types of Buoys

Buoys play a crucial role in helping mariners navigate safely through waterways by indicating important information about the surrounding environment. The colors and topmarks of different types of buoys are standardized to ensure consistency and clear communication to mariners. Let's explore the colors and topmarks of four common types of buoys:

Safe Water Buoys:

Safe water buoys are used to mark safe navigable water areas where vessels can safely navigate without any obstructions. These buoys are typically colored with red and white vertical stripes. The topmark of a safe water buoy is a single red sphere.

Isolated Danger Buoys:

Isolated danger buoys are deployed to indicate isolated hazards or dangers in the water, such as submerged rocks or wrecks. These buoys are commonly colored with black and red horizontal stripes. The topmark of an isolated danger buoy consists of two black spheres, one above the other, with a single black sphere on top.

Preferred Channel Markers:

Preferred channel markers are used to guide mariners along the preferred route within a navigational channel, indicating the deepest or safest path. These buoys are typically distinguished by green and red horizontal stripes. The topmark of a preferred channel marker is a green cylinder.

Special Purpose Buoys:

Special purpose buoys serve various specific purposes, such as marking areas for certain permitted or prohibited activities. The colors and topmarks of special purpose buoys vary based on their intended function. For example, a special purpose buoy marking a swimming area may be colored yellow and have a diamond-shaped topmark.