Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Boater Safety Practice Exam

When leaving port heading downstream towards the sea, which color buoys should be on the left?

1. Red

2. Green

3. Blue

4. White

The correct answer is: Red

When departing from the port and traveling downstream towards the sea, navigational rules indicate that red buoys should be on your left side. This is guided by the IALA (International Association of Lighthouse Authorities) buoyage system used in most regions, specifically the red-right-return rule. Under this system, red buoys mark the right side of the channel when entering from the sea, making it essential for boaters to remember that the same applies when heading downstream. Thus, as you leave port heading towards the open water, red buoys should indeed be placed on your left. This helps ensure safe navigation and prevents confusion, especially in areas like rivers and harbors where buoy alignment is critical for safe passage. The placement of buoys is designed to create a uniform method for identifying navigable channels, promoting safety for all vessels.