BASIC NAVIGATION AIDS Aids to Navigation (ATONs) are buoys (floating
aids) and beacons (fixed or non-floating aids) that indicate channels, show the location of submerged hazards, and help you to know where you are. There are many kinds of buoys and beacons, ranging from a simple unlit buoy to a massive lighthouse. The most common ones fall into the categories shown here.
The basic rule to remember in U.S. waters is “Red, Right, Returning.” This means keep the Red aids to your Right (starboard) side when you are Returning from open water or entering a harbor or marina. Keep the green aids on your right when leaving.
ATONs have distinct shapes, colors, numbers, and (sometimes) lighting characteristics to help you to identify them. Their position is shown on nautical charts. Study a chart of your local sailing area to become familiar with the navigation aids you will be encountering.
Green or red lighted buoys are spaced relatively far apart and located near the entrances of harbors. Each has a distinct flashing pattern that is indicated on a chart so it can be readily identified. Lighted buoys are especially helpful for navigating at night.
A can is an odd-numbered, green buoy that is used to mark the left side of a channel when entering (returning to) a harbor. It has a flat top. When you leave a harbor, cans mark the right
side of the channel.
A nun is an even-numbered, red buoy used to mark the right side of a channel when entering (returning to) the harbor. It has a pointed top. When you leave the harbor, nuns mark the left side of the channel.
7 4 A green beacon is a
square, odd-numbered green sign that is mounted to a piling. It marks the side of a channel and should be treated like a can.
l Chart - Demonstrate using a chart to identify ATONs, depth, and hazards.
l ATONs - Identify common aids to navigation on the water.
A red beacon is a triangular, even- numbered, red sign mounted to a piling. It marks the right side of a channel when returning from sea.
l Avoiding Collisions - Demonstrate avoiding hazards or obstructions while on the water.
l Red, Right, Returning - Demonstrate keeping red buoys and beacons on your starboard side when returning to harbor.
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