ფაილი 3

English for Navigation Skills: A Guide to the IALA MBS Zurab Bezhanovi
English for Navigation Skills:

A Guide to the IALA MBS
Foreword
The presented course-book is the result of the conducted research application of modern
MET/ESP/ELT methods and approaches.
This course-book is aimed to meet the requirements of STCW 78/95 (A-II/1, A-III/1 –
specification of minimum standard of competence at the management and operational level)
including 2010 Manila Amendments and corresponding IМО 3.17 Model Course.
This course-book consists of four units covering the illustrated explanation (BA/UKHO,
NOAA, simplified ECDIS and the IALA symbols and sketches) of the IALA MBS provided with
the communicative competence activities.
The aim of the course-book is to provide the students with adequate competence and
proficiency, to enable them to use specific nautical terminology and to develop oral communication
skills by means of individual project work motivation.
The expected outcome:
 The fluent use of adequate speech act modeling skills;
 The fluent use of text analytical work skills;
 Critical thinking skills development.
To the Examinees and Instructors: the Principles of the Assessment
 speech fluency development:
 pair work discussions;
 presentations of individual project works;
 presentations of the illustrations in Blind Format:
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Contents:
Unit 1: A Guide to the IALA MBS – An Introduction
 An Introduction to the IALA MBS
 A General Description of the TSS
Unit 2: A Guide to the IALA MBS - A General Description of the Marks’ Types and Shapes;
Light Identification
 Types and recognizable elements of the IALA MBS marks
 Shape Identification of the IALA MBS marks
 Lights' types and features
Unit 3: A Guide to the IALA MBS: An Illustrated Description of the Lateral, Cardinal, Isolated
Danger, EWMB, Safe Water and Special Marks
 The Lateral Marks, Region A: features and function
 The Lateral Marks, Region B: features and function
 The Cardinal Marks: features and function
 The Isolated Danger Mark: features and function
 New Danger Marking: types, features and function
 The Safe Water Marks: features and function
 The Special Marks: features and function
Unit 4: A Guide to IALA MBS: Major and Minor Lights; Sector Lights and Lights Marking
Fairways: features and function
 An Illustrated Description of Major, Minor and Sector Lights
 An Illustrated Description of Lights Marking Fairways
References
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Unit 1: A Guide to the IALA MBS – An Introduction to the IALA MBS

In 1957 the IALA (International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse
Authorities) was formed to unify the World's Buoyage System.
In 1980 Lighthouse Authorities from fifty countries and representatives from nine
international organisations created the IALA MBS which specifies the shapes, colors and
characteristic lights of buoys depending on their purpose.
After the 2006 IALA Conference in Shanghai the further development of electronic aids to
navigation was decided.
The most significant changes in the 2010 revision are the inclusion of the Emergency Wreck
Marking Buoy, and the integration of electronic marks via radio transmission.
AtoNs (Aids to Navigation) include any device or system, external to a vessel, which is provided to
help a mariner to determine position and course, to warn of dangers or of obstructions, or to give
advice about the location of a best or preferred route. AtoNs should not be confused with a
navigational aid. A navigational aid is an instrument, device, chart, etc., carried on board a vessel for
the purpose of assisting navigation.
Visual Marks can be natural or man-made conspicuous objects such as mountain-tops, rocks,
churches, towers, minarets, monuments, chimneys, etc.
Purpose-built AtoNs include lighthouses, beacons, leading (range) lines, lightvessels, buoys,
daymarks (dayboards) and traffic signals. Visual marks can be provided with a light or left unlit. The
effectiveness of a visual AtoN depends on its type, location, distance and atmospheric conditions.
AtoN distinguishing features include the location, type (fixed structure,
floating platform) and characteristics (shape, size, elevation, color, lit/unlit,
light intensity, signal character, construction material, names,
letters and numbers).
A lighthouse is a conspicuous structure on land, close to
the shoreline or in the water which acts as a daymark and also
provides a marine signaling light with a range of up to 25
nautical miles; it can be a manned or automated facility. 
A beacon is usually a small fixed visual mark. Visual
characteristics are often presented by daymarks, topmarks
and by numbers.
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Lighthouses and beacons are usually used to perform one or more of the following navigational
functions:
 to mark a landfall position;
 to mark an obstruction or a danger:
Obstruction, least depth known:
 to indicate the lateral limits of a channel or navigable waterway;

 to indicate a turning point or a junction in a waterway;
 to form part of a leading (range) line:
 to assist mariners to take a bearing or Line of Position (LOP);

Other purposes, for which a lighthouse can be used, include:
 to indicate coastguard functions;
 to provide base for audible (fog) signals:
 to provide collection of meteorological and oceanographic data;

 to provide radio and telecommunication facilities;
 to provide Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) functions;
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Lighthouses and beacons are also used to mark the entrance of a Traffic Separation Scheme
(TSS) and other ship routeing systems which are established in most of the major congested shipping
areas of the world. Elements used in Traffic Separation/Routeing Systems include:
1. Traffic
separation
scheme; traffic
separated by
separation zone
2. Traffic
separation
scheme, traffic
separated by
natural
obstructions
3. Traffic
separation
scheme with
outer
separation zone
(separating
traffic using
scheme from
traffic not
using it)
4. Traffic
separation
scheme,
roundabout
5. Traffic
separation
scheme, with
"crossing
gates"
6. Traffic
separation
schemes crossing, without designated precautionary area
7. Precautionary area
8. Inshore traffic zone, with defined end-limits
9. Inshore traffic zone without defined end-limits
10. Recommended direction of traffic flow, between Traffic separation schemes
11. Recommended direction of traffic flow, for ships not needed a deep water route
12. Deep water route, as part of one-way traffic lane
13. Two-way deep water route, with minimum depth stated
14. Deep water route, centerline shown as recommended оne-way or two-way track.
15. Recommended route (often marked by centerline buoys)
16. Two-way route with one-way sections
17. Area to be avoided, around navigational aid
18. Area to be avoided, because of danger of stranding
 Individual work/Presentation: be ready to comment upon the presented illustration.
5
A floating AtoN serves a similar purpose to a beacon or a lighthouse. The floating platform can
be a buoy or a lightship/a lightvessel:
 Some lightships/lightvessels are equipped with a foghorn for audible signals:
 BA Symbol for a Lightship:
Other forms of floating aids are spar buoys, light float and the LANBY (Large Automatic Navigation
Buoy).
 BA Symbol for a LANBY:
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Pair Work. Ask and answer the following questions:
What was the purpose of the IALA formation?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What features of buoys are specified in the IALA MBS?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What was decided after the 2006 IALA Conference in Shanghai?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the most significant changes in the IALA 2010 revision?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the AtoNs in general.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the difference between the AtoN and the navigational aid?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe Visual Marks in general.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the examples of purpose-built AtoNs?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What factors does the effectiveness of a visual AtoN depend on?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are AtoN distinguishing features?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe a lighthouse in general.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe a beacon in general.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What elements often define the visual characteristics of a beacon?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
List the typical navigational functions of a lighthouse or a beacon.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is a typical usage of a beacon?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Where TSS and other ship routeing systems are established?
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What elements are used in Traffic Separation/Routeing Systems?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What can be a floating platform for a floating AtoN?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
List possible forms of floating aids:
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Individual project work:

 Skim and scan the presented text and conclude, why it is important for a future seafarer:
don’t simply copy the contents, put appropriate word combinations into the given sentence
models, motivate your answer in the form of a short summary:
to comply with: to steer; to become: a to perform: a vessel a vessel

the COLREG to manoeuvre; rating watchkeeping engaged in restricted in
rules; to alter the forming part duties; dredging or her ability to
the STCW course to of a the Master’s underwater manoeuvre;
requirements; starboard; navigational orders; the operation; a power-driven
the SOLAS to alter the watch; pilot’s advice; a vessel vessel engaged
requirements; course to port; an officer in VTS; engaged in in a towing
the MARPOL to operate charge of a instructions fishing operation
requirements; astern navigational
the IALA propulsion watch;
recommendations a Master
to maintain: to proceed at a to prevent: in narrow to obtain: not to run
a proper lookout; safe speed the channel; an early aground;
shiphandling risk of in congested warning of not to impede
collision; waters; the risk of the passage
striking with in Head-on collision;
another situation a
vessel watchkeeping
license
on-board to provide: to avoid: an to deem the to take an to join the
training; manoeuvrability accident; the risk of early action; traffic lane;
seagoing service of the vessel; immediate distress; to allow the to leave the
safe navigation danger safe passage traffic lane
Of course, I naturally (obviously/evidently) agree that……………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………is/are important for future seafarers (mariners/seamen).
Let me present a set of arguments clearly proving my point of view:
Firstly,…………………………………………is/are necessary (compulsory/obligatory) for/to …………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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Similarly (likewise), there is no doubt, (it is for sure) that ……………………………………..…………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………is/are essential (important) to/for .………………………………………………………
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……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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So, as I think (in my opinion/as to me), it is for sure, that every cadet should …………………………………
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In other words, it is obvious, (clear) that …………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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Let’s use this illustration as an example: (use any of the presented sketches):……………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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Finally, as the conclusion, if one wants to become a seafarer, he should ………………………………….………….
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Types and recognizable elements of the IALA MBS marks
The IALA MBS consists of the following marks that may be used in any combination:
 Lateral Marks;
 Cardinal Marks;
 Isolated Danger Marks;
 Safe Water Marks;
 Special Marks,
 and the Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy (New Danger Mark).
The marks have easily recognizable elements. All marks within the IALA MBS are distinguished by:
BA Chart Symbol:
 Shape;
 Color;
 Topmark;
 Light;
 Location;
 Markings (name, number: etc) and
 auxiliary features such as sound signals:
Whistle Bell Gong
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 and RACON (RAdar beaCON) - a radar transponder used to mark maritime navigational
hazards, etc.
RACON:
BA Chart Symbol:
 Individual work/Presentation: be ready to comment upon the presented illustrations.
11
Shape Identification of the IALA MBS marks
Shape Identification: the shape is an important distinguishing feature, because colors cannot be
distinguished in some light conditions.
There are following shapes of marks usually used in the IALA MBS:
1. Can; 4. Pillar;
2. Conical; 5. Spar.
3. Spherical;
“Pillar” is any buoy which has a tall central structure on a broad base. A “Spar” is a stout pole; when
used as a buoy, it is provided with additional buoyancy and moored so that it stands straight up.
 BA chart symbols are the following:
cylindrical (can);
pillar;
conical;
spar.
spherical;
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What are the types of marks used in the IALA MBS?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are easily recognizable elements of the marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are easily recognizable auxiliary features of the marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the purpose of a RACON?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Why is the shape an important feature of the marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the possible shapes of the marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

another situation a
vessel watchkeeping
license
13
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Lights' types and features
Light Identification: there are 3 features to describe the light:
1. Color which may be white, red, green or yellow. If no color is stated in the chart,
default is white.
2. Period which is the time in seconds of one complete cycle.
The arrow indicates the 10 second period of this flashing light “Fl(3) 10s”:
3. Phase - the particular pattern of changes within 1 complete cycle/period.
Fixed Light (F) is a light showing continuously and steadily.
Occulting Light is a light in which the total duration of light in a period is clearly longer than
the total duration of darkness and all the intervals of darkness (eclipses) are of equal duration.
A Single-Occulting Light (Oc) is a light in which an eclipse is regularly repeated.
Group-Occulting Light (Oc(#) e.g. Oc(2)) is an occulting light in which a group of eclipses,
specified in number, is regularly repeated.
Composite Group-Occulting Light (Oc(# + #) eg.Oc(2 + 1)) is a light similar to a group-occulting

light except that successive groups in a period have different numbers of eclipses.
Isophase Light (Iso) is a light in which all the durations of light and darkness are clearly equal.
15
Flashing Light is a light in which the total duration of light in a period is clearly shorter than
the total duration of darkness and all the flashes are of equal duration.
Single-Flashing Light (Fl) is a light in which a flash is regularly repeated; the duration of the
interval of darkness (eclipse) between two successive flashes should not be less than three times the
duration of a flash.
Long-Flashing Light (LFl) is a single-flashing light in which an appearance of light of not less
than 2 seconds duration (long flash) is regularly repeated.
Group-Flashing Light (Fl(#) eg. Fl(2)) is a flashing light in which a group of flashes, specified in
number, is regularly repeated.
Composite Group-Flashing Light (Fl(# + #) eg Fl(2 + 1)) is a light similar to a group-flashing

light except that successive groups in a period have different numbers of flashes.
Quick Light is a light in which identical flashes are repeated at the rate of 60 (or 50) flashes
per minute. The higher rate of flashing is preferred.
Continuous Quick Light (Q) is a quick light in which a flash is regularly repeated.
16
Group Quick Light (Q(#) eg Q(3) eg Q(9) eg Q(6) +LFl) is a quick light in which a specified
group of flashes is regularly repeated. The numbers of flashes should be 3 or 9. An exceptional light
character is reserved for use in the IALA Maritime Buoyage System to indicate a south cardinal mark.
Q(3)
Q(9)
Q(6) +LFl
Very Quick Light – is a light in which identical flashes are repeated at the rate of 120 (or 100)
flashes per minute. The higher rate of flashing is preferred.
Continuous Very Quick Light (VQ) – is a very quick light in which a flash is regularly repeated.
Group Very Quick Light – (VQ(#); eg VQ(3); eg VQ(9); eg VQ(6)+LFl) - A very quick light in
which a specified group of flashes is regularly repeated. The number of flashes in a group should be
three or nine. An exceptional light character is reserved for use in the IALA Maritime Buoyage
System to indicate a south cardinal mark.
VQ(3)

17
VQ(9)
VQ(6)+LFl
Ultra Quick Light is a light in which flashes are repeated at a rate of not less than 240 flashes
per minute and not more than 300 flashes per minute.
Continuous Ultra Quick Light (UQ) is an ultra quick light in which a flash is regularly repeated.
Morse Code Light (Mo(#) eg. Mo(A)) is a light in which appearances of light of two clearly
different durations are grouped to represent a character or characters in the Morse Code.
Fixed and Flashing Light (FFl) is a light in which a fixed light is combined with a flashing light
of higher luminous intensity.
Alternating Light (Al## eg A1WR) is a light showing different colors alternately.
18

What are 3 features to describe the light?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the default if no color is stated in the chart?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the period of light?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the definition of phase?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the Fixed Light.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the Occulting Light.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the Single-Occulting Light.
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Describe the Group-Occulting Light.
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Describe Composite group-occulting light.
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Define the Isophase Light.
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Describe the Flashing Light.
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Describe the Single-Flashing light
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Describe the Long-Flashing light
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Describe the Group-Flashing light
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Describe the Composite group-flashing light
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Describe the Quick Light
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Describe the Continuous Quick Light
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Describe the Group Quick Light.
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Describe the Very Quick Light.

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Describe the Continuous Very Quick Light.

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Describe the Ultra Quick Light
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Describe the Continuous ultra quick light
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Describe the Morse Code Light
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Describe the Fixed and Flashing Light
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Describe the Alternating Light
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20

another situation a
vessel watchkeeping
license
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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22
The Lateral Marks, Region A: features and function
Lateral Marks (signs) indicate the port and starboard hand side of a safe water channel. The
lateral signs in the Regions A and B are
different; the other marks are common for
these both regions. If marks at the sides of a
channel are numbered or lettered, the
numbering or lettering shall follow the
“conventional direction of buoyage” which may
be:
 Local Direction of Buoyage: the direction
taken by the Mariner when approaching
a harbor, river, or other waterway from
seaward;
 General Direction of Buoyage: the direction determined by the buoyage authorities is based,
whenever possible, on the principle of following a clockwise direction around continents and is
usually given in Admiralty Sailing Direction and, if necessary, indicated on charts by the
appropriate symbol.
 BA Chart Symbol:
Description of Lateral Marks used in Region A:
Port hand Marks Starboard hand Marks
Color Red Green
Shape (Buoys) Cylindrical (can), pillar or spar Conical, pillar or spar
Topmark (if any) Single red cylinder (can) Single green cone, point upward
Light (when fitted)
Color Red Green
Quick Flashing, Flashing, Long Quick Flashing, Flashing, Long
Rhythm Flashing, Group Flashing Flashing, Group Flashing
23

What do the Lateral Marks indicate?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Are the lateral signs in the Regions A and B different?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What signs are common for these both regions?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the conventional direction of buoyage.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the color of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
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What are the light rhythms of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
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What is the color of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
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What are the shapes of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
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What is the light color of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region A?
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What are the light rhythms of Starboard hand Lateral Marks used in Region A?
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24
At the point where a channel divides when proceeding in the “conventional direction of
buoyage”, a preferred channel may be indicated by a modified Port or Starboard lateral mark/junction
buoy/bifurcation mark which usually indicate a deep water channel, suitable for commercial traffic,
with a secondary channel suitable for shallower draught vessels as follows:
Preferred channel to Starboard Preferred channel to Port
Red with one broad green Green with one broad red
Color horizontal horizontal
Topmark (if any) Single red cylinder (can) Single green cone, point upward
Light (when fitted)
Color Red Green
Rhythm Composite group flashing (2+1) Composite group flashing (2+1)
25
Describe the colors of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region A.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light rhythm of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks used in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Where are typically Preferred Channel Marks placed?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is indicated by Preferred Channel Marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the colors of Starboard hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region A.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of Starboard Preferred Channel Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Starboard Preferred Channel Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Starboard Preferred Channel Marks in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light rhythm of Starboard Preferred Channel Marks used in Region A?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
26

another situation a
vessel watchkeeping
license
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27
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28
 Individual work/Presentation: be ready to comment upon the presented illustration in its blind
format:
29
The Lateral Marks, Region B: features and function
Port hand Marks Starboard hand Marks

Color Green Red
Topmark (if any) Single green cylinder (can) Single red cone, point upward
Light (when fitted)
Color Green Red
Quick Flashing, Flashing, Long Quick Flashing, Flashing, Long
Rhythm Flashing, Group Flashing Flashing, Group Flashing
30
What is the color of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the light rhythms of Port hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the color of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the light rhythms of Starboard hand Lateral Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
31
At the point where a channel divides, when proceeding in the “conventional direction of
buoyage”, a preferred channel may be indicated by a modified Port or Starboard lateral mark
as follows:
Preferred channel to Starboard Preferred channel to Port
Green with one broad red Red with one broad green
Color horizontal horizontal
Topmark (if any) Single green cylinder (can) Single red cone, point upward
Light (when fitted)
Color Green Red
Rhythm Composite group flashing (2 + 1) Composite group flashing (2 + 1)
Describe the colors of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region B.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
32
What is the light rhythm of Port hand Preferred Channel Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the color of Starboard hand Preferred Channel Marks used in Region B.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the shape of Starboard Preferred Channel Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Starboard Preferred Channel Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Starboard Preferred Channel Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light rhythm of Starboard Preferred Channel Marks in Region B?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

another situation a
vessel watchkeeping
license
33
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34
format:
35
The Cardinal Marks: features and function
Non-lateral marks provide navigators with direction and information; warn of hazards, mark
controlled areas, etc.
The cardinal system is identical in both the IALA A and IALA B Regions.
A Cardinal Mark is named after the quadrant in which it is placed. The name of a Cardinal Mark
indicates that it should be passed to the named side of the mark.
For example, the West Cardinal Buoy has safe water on
its West and the danger on its East side:
BA Chart Symbol:
Description of Cardinal Marks:
North Cardinal Mark East Cardinal Mark

2 black cones, one above the 2 black cones, one above the
Topmark (a) other, points upward other, base to base
Black with a single broad
Color Black above yellow horizontal yellow band
Shape (Buoys) Pillar or spar Pillar or spar
Light (when fitted)
Color White White
Rhythm VQ or Q VQ(3) every 5s or Q(3) every 10s
South Cardinal Mark West Cardinal Mark

2 black cones, one above the 2 black cones, one above the
Topmark (a) other, points downward other, point to point
Yellow with a single broad
Color Yellow above black horizontal black band
Shape (Buoys) Pillar or spar Pillar or spar
Light (when fitted)
Color White White
VQ(6) + Long flash every 10s or
Rhythm Q(6) + Long flash every 15s VQ(9) every 10s or Q(9) every 15s
36
Note: (a) The double cone topmark is a very important characteristic feature of every Cardinal mark
by day, and should be used wherever practicable and be as large as possible with a clear separation
between the cones.
37
format:
38
What is the purpose of the Non-lateral marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What does the name of a Cardinal Mark indicate?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Is the cardinal system identical in both the IALA A and the IALA B MBS?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Give an example presenting the function of the North/East/South/West Cardinal Mark.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the colors of the North Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of the North Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the topmark of the North Cardinal Mark.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of the North Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the light rhythms of the North Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the colors of the East Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of the East Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the topmark of the East Cardinal Mark.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of the East Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the light rhythms of the East Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the colors of the South Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of the South Cardinal Mark?
39
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the topmark of the South Cardinal Mark.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of the South Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the light rhythms of the South Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the colors of the West Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of the West Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the topmark of the West Cardinal Mark.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of the West Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the light rhythms of the West Cardinal Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is a very important characteristic feature of every Cardinal Mark by daytime?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
40


another situation a
vessel watchkeeping
license
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41
Similarly (likewise), there is no doubt, (it is for sure) that ……………………………………..……………………………….
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42
The Isolated Danger Mark: features and function
An Isolated Danger mark is erected on, or moored on or above an isolated danger (a hazard directly
below the mark) that has navigable water all around it.
Description:
Topmark (b) 2 black spheres, one above the other
Color Black with one or more broad horizontal red bands
Optional, but not conflicting with lateral marks; pillar or spar
Shape (Buoys) preferred
Light (when
fitted)
Color White
Rhythm Group flashing (2)
Note: (b) The double sphere topmark is a very important characteristic feature of every Isolated
Danger Mark.
43
Where is the Isolated Danger mark erected on or moored on or above?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is a very important characteristic feature of every Isolated Danger Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the colors of the Isolated Danger Mark.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of the Isolated Danger Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the topmark of the Isolated Danger Mark.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of the Isolated Danger Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light rhythm of the Isolated Danger Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
44
New Danger Marking: types, features and function
Experimental New Danger Buoy (Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy) is a new type of buoy
recommended by IALA for marking new wrecks.
The “New Danger” is a newly discovered hazards not yet indicated in nautical documents. “New
Dangers” include naturally occurring obstructions such as sandbanks or
rocks 
or man-made dangers such as wrecks: 
Marking of New Dangers:
“New Dangers” should be
appropriately marked using Lateral,
Cardinal, Isolated Danger marks or by
using the Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy.
If the Authority considers the risk to
navigation to be especially high, at least one of the marks should be duplicated.
If using a Lateral lighted mark for this purpose a VQ or Q light character shall be used.
In addition it may be marked by a Racon, coded Morse “D”(- ● ●) and by other electronic
means, such as Automatic Identification System (AIS as an
AtoN). 
Virtual Aids to Navigation may be deployed solely or in addition to
physical Aids to Navigation.
New Danger Marked by 2 port lateral buoys and RACON: 
The New Danger Buoy has the following characteristic features:
 Shape of Buoy: A pillar or
spar;
 Colored in equal number
and dimensions of blue and
yellow vertical stripes
(minimum of 4 stripes and maximum of 8 stripes);
 Fitted with an alternating blue and yellow light with a nominal
range of 4 nautical miles where the blue and yellow 1 second
flashes are alternated with an interval of 0.5 seconds.
B1.0s + 0.5s + Y1.0s + 0.5s = 3.0s
 A RACON sending the letter "D" in the Morse Code and/or AIS
transponder can be used.
 The top mark, if fitted, is a vertical/perpendicular yellow cross.
These buoys remain until:
 The wreck is well known and is indicated in nautical publications;
 The wreck has been fully surveyed and exact details such as position and least depth
above the wreck are known;
 A permanent form of marking of the wreck has been carried out.
45

What is a new type of buoy recommended by IALA for marking new wrecks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What was the reason of EWMB introduction?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the “New Danger”.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are natural and man-made “New Dangers”?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
How should the “New Dangers” be marked?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of EWMB?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the colors of EWMB.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of EWMB?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of EWMB?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light rhythm of EWMB?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
How long does EWMB remain?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
46
The Safe Water Marks: features and function
Safe Water (aka Fairway Buoys) Marks serve to indicate navigable water all round the mark;
these include centre line marks and mid-channel marks. Such a mark may also be used to indicate
channel entrance, port or estuary approach, or landfall. The light rhythm may also be used to indicate
best point of passage under bridges.
Description:
Color Red and white vertical stripes

Shape (Buoys) Spherical; pillar or spar with spherical topmark
Topmark (if any) Single red sphere
Light (when
fitted)
Color White
Rhythm Isophase, occulting, one long flash every 10s or Morse “A”
47
What does a Safe Water (a Fairway Buoy) mark indicate?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe the color of Safe Water Marks.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the shapes of Safe Water Marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Safe Water Marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Safe Water Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the light rhythms of Safe Water Mark?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
48
The Special Marks: features and function
Special Marks indicate a special area or feature, for example:
 Ocean Data Acquisition Systems (ODAS) marks (moored in deep oceans recording weather,
tide and wave information);
 Traffic separation marks where use of conventional channel marking may cause confusion.
 Spoil Ground marks.
 Military exercise zone marks.
 Cable or pipeline marks.
 Recreation zone marks.
Description:
Color Yellow
Shape (Buoys) Optional, but not conflicting with lateral (navigational) marks
Topmark (if any) Single yellow “X” shape
Light (when fitted)
Color Yellow
Any, other than reserved for Cardinal, Isolated, Danger and Safe
Water Marks phase characteristic not used for white lights, e.g. Fl Y,
Rhythm Fl (4) Y
Additional Special Marks may be established to meet exceptional circumstances. These additional
marks shall not conflict with navigational marks and shall be promulgated in appropriate nautical
documents.
49
What do the Special Marks indicate?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the color of Special Marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the shape of Special Marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the topmark of Special Marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is the light color of Special Marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the light rhythms of Special Marks?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
50

another situation a
vessel watchkeeping
license
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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52
 Individual work/Presentation: be ready to comment upon the presented illustrations in their

blind format:
53
 Individual work/Presentation: be ready to comment upon the presented illustration:
 Individual work: fill in the presented table
# Type of Buoy (Region) Description Topmark Light

1
10
11
12
13
14
15
54
 Individual work/Presentation: be ready to comment upon the presented illustrations:
55
 Individual work/Presentation: be ready to comment upon the presented illustrations:
56
An Illustrated Description of Major, Minor and Sector Lights
Major lights are subdivided into:
 primary lights (very strong, long range lights marking landfalls or coastal passages) and
 secondary lights (shorter range lights used at harbour and river entrances).
Minor lights are within harbours, along channels and rivers. These have a low to moderate
intensity and sometimes mark isolated dangers.
Sector light is a man-made pilotage and position fixing aid used for safe passage through
shallow or dangerous waters.
There are three lights of different colors, each identifying a navigational sector:
1. white - this sector is in the middle of the safe channel;
2. red - indicates the port edge of the channel for vessels approaching the light source;
3. green - indicates the starboard edge of the channel for vessels approaching the light
source.
57
 Sector light on standard charts:
 Sector light on standard charts, the white sector limits marking the sides of the fairway:
58
 Sector light on multicolored charts, the white sector limits marking the sides of the fairway:
 Main light visible all-round with red subsidiary light seen over danger:
59
 All-round light with obscured sector:
 Light with arc of visibility deliberately restricted:
60
 Light with faint sector:
 Light with intensified sector:
61
An Illustrated Description of Lights Marking Fairways (Note: Quoted bearings are always from
seaward)
 Leading lights with leading line and arcs of visibility:
 Leading lights on small-scale charts:
 Lights in line, marking the sides of a channel:
62
 Direction light with narrow sector and course to be followed, flanked by darkness or
unintensifed light:
 Direction light with course to be followed; uncharted sector is flanked by darkness or

unintensified light:
 Direction light with narrow fairway sector flanked by sectors of different character:
63
 Moiré effect light (day and night) Arrows show when course alteration needed:
What is the subdivision of Major lights?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe primary lights.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Describe secondary lights.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Where are the Minor lights typically placed?
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Describe Minor lights.
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What is the purpose of a Sector light?
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Describe three lights identifying a navigational sector.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What Lights mark Fairways?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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another situation a
vessel watchkeeping
license
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 Individual work/Presentation: be ready to comment upon the presented illustration, check
your knowledge and proficiency of the IALA MBS:
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References
 IALA Aids to Navigation Manual NAVGUIDE, International Association of Marine Aids to
Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities, 2010.
 Maritime Buoyage System and Other Aids to Navigation - International Association of Marine
Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities, 2010.
 IALA Recommendation E-110 for the Rhythmic Characters of Lights on Aids to Navigation
Edition 2, 2005
 http://mapserver.mytopo.com/mapserver/nautical_symbols/contents.html
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English for Navigation Skills: A Guide to the IALA MBS Zurab Bezhanovi

English for Navigation Skills:

MET/ESP/ELT methods and approaches.

specification of minimum standard of competence at the management and operational level)

the communicative competence activities.

skills by means of individual project work motivation.

The expected outcome:

 The fluent use of adequate speech act modeling skills;

 The fluent use of text analytical work skills;

 Critical thinking skills development.

To the Examinees and Instructors: the Principles of the Assessment

 speech fluency development:

 pair work discussions;

 presentations of individual project works;

 presentations of the illustrations in Blind Format:

Unit 1: A Guide to the IALA MBS – An Introduction

 An Introduction to the IALA MBS

 A General Description of the TSS

 Types and recognizable elements of the IALA MBS marks

 Shape Identification of the IALA MBS marks

 Lights' types and features

Danger, EWMB, Safe Water and Special Marks

 The Lateral Marks, Region A: features and function

 The Lateral Marks, Region B: features and function

 The Cardinal Marks: features and function

 The Isolated Danger Mark: features and function

 New Danger Marking: types, features and function

 The Safe Water Marks: features and function

 The Special Marks: features and function

Fairways: features and function

 An Illustrated Description of Major, Minor and Sector Lights

 An Illustrated Description of Lights Marking Fairways

Unit 1: A Guide to the IALA MBS – An Introduction to the IALA MBS

Obstruction, least depth known:

 to indicate the lateral limits of a channel or navigable waterway;

 to assist mariners to take a bearing or Line of Position (LOP);

 to provide collection of meteorological and oceanographic data;

 Some lightships/lightvessels are equipped with a foghorn for audible signals:

 BA Symbol for a Lightship:

Pair Work. Ask and answer the following questions:

What was the purpose of the IALA formation?

What features of buoys are specified in the IALA MBS?

What was decided after the 2006 IALA Conference in Shanghai?

Describe the AtoNs in general.

Describe Visual Marks in general.

What are the examples of purpose-built AtoNs?

What factors does the effectiveness of a visual AtoN depend on?

What are AtoN distinguishing features?

Describe a lighthouse in general.

Describe a beacon in general.

What elements often define the visual characteristics of a beacon?

List the typical navigational functions of a lighthouse or a beacon.

What is a typical usage of a beacon?

Where TSS and other ship routeing systems are established?

What elements are used in Traffic Separation/Routeing Systems?

What can be a floating platform for a floating AtoN?

List possible forms of floating aids:

Individual project work:

models, motivate your answer in the form of a short summary:

to comply with: to steer; to become: a to perform: a vessel a vessel

Of course, I naturally (obviously/evidently) agree that……………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………is/are important for future seafarers (mariners/seamen).

Let me present a set of arguments clearly proving my point of view: