What does a green buoy indicate?

A green buoy indicates a safe water channel. In nautical navigation, buoys are used as markers to assist mariners in identifying safe passages and navigating through waters effectively. Green buoys are typically associated with the "Port Side" marking system, where they are placed on the left side of a vessel's path when entering a harbor or navigating upstream, following the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) system.

These buoys help indicate areas of safe water, allowing for proper navigation while avoiding hazards such as shoals, rocks, or other obstacles. In the context of a channel, a green buoy signifies that there is safe water to navigate alongside it, guiding vessels to follow designated routes.

Understanding the role of buoys, including color codes and their meanings, is critical for safe operation and effective navigation, making it essential knowledge for those in maritime operations such as coxswains in the US Coast Guard.