Rolyan Buoys For Border And Centerline Markers

The U.S. waterways are marked for safe navigation by the lateral system of buoyage. The system uses a simple arrangement of colors, shapes, numbers and light characteristics to show the side on which a buoy should be passed, when proceeding in a given direction.

The characteristics are determined by the buoy’s position with respect to the navigable channels, as the channels are entered from seaward.

The expression “red right returning” has long been used by boater’s, as a reminder that the red buoys are kept to the starboard (right) side when proceeding from the open sea into port. If lighted the buoy will have a red light.

The green buoys are kept to the port (left) side when returning from the open sea to port. If lighted the buoy will have a green light.

When proceeding toward the sea or leaving port, red buoys are kept to port (left) side and green buoys are kept to the (right) starboard side.

Red buoys are always even numbered, and green buoys are odd numbered.

Red and white vertically striped buoys mark the center of the channel.

Red & Green Lateral Markers may be passed on either side of the marker when proceeding in the upstream direction, but the main or preferred channel is indicated by the color of the topmost band. For example, the illustrated marker below indicates the preferred channel is to the right, so you would keep the marker on your left (port) side when passing.

Centerline Buoy Red and White Stripes

Water obstruction markers – Red and White stripes. You should not pass between these buoys and the shore

Centerline Buoy Black and White Stripes

Inland waters obstruction markers are white with black stripes. You should not pass between these buoys and the shore

• ABS Plastic Shell
• 9” diameter
• Ultra violet inhibited.  Will not rust, chip, or peel
• Completely urethane foam filled – Virtually Unsinkable
• Nun and Can Types
• Easy reconditioning of weather-worn buoys, with excellent adhesion of restoration materials

• Stainless Steel Mooring eye
• Agency or name identification
• White numerical markings
• Solar lights

• Submerged Buoyancy               84 lbs.
• Net Weight                              49 lbs.
• Shipping Weight                       56 lbs.