Lateral Buoy System

Red to the Right when Returning

Red buoys must be kept on the right side of a craft when proceeding in the upstream direction.

Here’s a simple way to help remember these rules: think of three R’s… Red to the Right when Returning.

Bifurcation Buoys

A bifurcation buoy is used to mark the point where a channel divides.

You may pass buoys with red and green bands on either side in the upstream direction. The main or preferred channel, however, is shown by the colour of the top-most band. For example, if a green band is on top, then you should keep the buoy on your port (left) side.