Conquer the Waves: USCG Coxswain Mastery Challenge 2026 – Set Sail for Success!

A starboard-side buoy is colored green. This designates the buoy as a marker for navigational purposes, specifically indicating the right side of a channel when returning from sea. The International Association of Lighthouse Authorities established this color coding system, which is widely recognized in maritime navigation.

The use of green buoys is crucial for both safety and efficient navigation, as they guide vessels safely along established channels by marking their position relative to nearby hazards or the channel's boundaries. This system helps prevent accidents by ensuring that mariners can easily identify their bearings and maintain the correct course.

In contrast, other colors have specific meanings in navigation. For instance, a red buoy—which is a port-side buoy—indicates the left side of the channel, while yellow and blue buoys typically indicate special purposes or specific areas that require caution, such as anchorage or nearby hazards. Understanding these color codes is essential for any mariner to navigate safely and effectively.