Instead, they're pondering the meaning of different colors, shapes and marks on channel markers, buoys and other aids to navigation. Cruising along a crowded harbor, boaters encounter many markers that indicate potential hazards, preferred channels and restricted areas. At first, using this diverse array of aids to navigation can be a bit confusing.
Buoys can have red, white or green lights, or they can be unlighted.
When you are looking at a navigation chart, each buoy is shown as a diamond and a circle. Since many buoys indicate navigation hazards, it is wise not to pass one too closely. You might hit an obstruction the buoy marks. All fixed navigation aids are called beacons. Daybeacons are installed in shallow water areas.