ANNEX C

NP735

IALA MARITIME BUOYAGE

SYSTEM
Combined Cardinal and Lateral System
(Red to port in Region A and red to starboard in Region B)

SEVENTH EDITION 2012

 arort=*
INTRODUCTION AND DESCRIPTION
INTRODUCTION
General information
1.1
The severest test of a buoyage system occurs
when the mariner is confronted unexpectedly by night
or in low visibility bylights marking an uncharted
danger, such as a recent wreck; immediately he must
instinctively, positively and correctly decide what he
must do.
ln the Dover Strait in 1971 , MV Brandenburg slruck
the wreckage of MV Texaco Caribbean and sank,
though the wreckage was appropriately marked. A few
weeks later the wreckage, despite being marked by a
wreck-marking vessel and many buoys, was struck by
MV N/k/, which also sank. A total of 51 lives was lost.
It was this disaster which gave rise to the
development and implementation of the IALA Maritime
Buoyage System.
The wreck of MV Tricolor in the Dover Strait in
2002 highlighted once again the need to mark new
dangers quickly and resulted in the introduction,
initially on a trial basis, of the Emergency Wreck
Marking Buoy. For full details, see 7.1.
Development
1.2
The beginnings of a uniform system of buoyage
emerged in 1889, when cedain countries agreed to
mark the port side of channels with black can buoys
and the starboard side with red conical buoys.
Unfortunately when lights for buoys were introduced,
some European countries placed red lights on the
black porl hand buoys to conform with the red lights
marking the port side of harbour entrances, whilst
throughout North America red lights were placed on
the red starboard hand buoys.
Thereafter various conferences sought a single
buoyage system, but without success, until 1936 when
a system was drawn up under The League of Nations
at Geneva. lt established a Cardinal system, and a
Lateral system with the principle that red buoys should
be used to port and black buoys to starboard. But
several countries were not signatories to this
Convention and continued to develop their original,
and opposite systems.
After World War ll (1 939-45) buoyage systems
were re-established in NW Europe based on the
system devised by the 1936 Geneva Convention, but
wide differences in interpretation of that system
resulted in nine different systems coming into use in
those waters.
ln 'l 973, observing the need for urgency, a fufther
attempt to find a single world-wide system of buoyage
305
.1
was made by the Technical Committee of the
lnternational Association of Lighthouse Authorities (now
lnternational Association of Marine Aids to Navigation
and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA)). IALA is a
non-governmental body which brings together
representatives from the aids to navigation services in
order to
exchange information and recommend
improvements to navigational aids based on the latest
technology.
o IALA decided that agreement could not be achieved
immediately, but concluded that the use of only two
alternative systems was practicable by dividing the
world into two Regions. lt proposed a system allowing
the use of both Cardinal and Lateral systems in each
Region, but whereas in Region A the colour red of the
Lateral system is used to mark the poft side of
channels and the colour green the starboard side, in
Region B the colours are reversed.
The boundaries of the two Buoyage Regions are
shown in Diagram 1.2.
lmplementation
1.3
ln 1980, at a conference convened with the
assistance of the lnter-Governmental Maritime
Consultative Organisation (IMCO) (now the
lnternational Maritime Organisation (lMO)) and the
lnternational Hydrographic Organisation (lHO), the
lighthouse authorities from 50 countries and the
representatives of nine international organisations
concerned with aids to navigation, agreed to adopt the
rules of the new combined system, and reached
decisions on the buoyage Regions.
The IALA System has now been implemented
throughout much of the world. ln some parts, however,
conversion to the new system is still incomplete.
ln certain areas, such as Norlh America and the
inland waterways of Western Europe, the IALA system
is used with modifications which are described in
Admiralty Sailing Directions.
However, although most major alterations of
buoyage to the IALA System have now been
completed, there are still some places where the
buoyage does not conform to that System. Some ports
will convert their buoyage piecemeal and only when
other buoyage changes make it convenient; others
have yet to announce plans to conform to the IALA
System.
Progress towards completion of the change to the
IALA System is, therefore, likely to be gradual, and
notice of change, if given, is likely to be short.
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DESCRIPTION OF THE SYSTEM
Scope
1.4
The System applies to all fixed and floating marks,
other than lighthouses, sector lights, leading lights and
marks, lanbys, certain large light floats, and light
vessels. ltserves to indicate:
Sides and centrelines of navigable channels.
Navigable channels under fixed bridges
2.1O).
Natural dangers and other obstructions such as
wrecks (which are described as "New
Dangers" when newly discovered and
uncharted).
Areas in which navigation may be subject to
regulation.
Other features of importance to the
Marks
1.5
Six types of mark are provided by the System:
Lateral, Cardinal, lsolated Danger, Safe Water, Special
marks and Emergency Wreck Marking Buoys. They
may be used in any combination. The way in which all
these types of marks can be combined is illustrated in
the General Scheme of Buoyage diagrams at 1.5.1-4,
Each type of mark is described in greater detail in
Chapters 2- 7.
Most lighted and unlighted beacons, other than
leading marks, are included in the System. ln general,
beacon topmarks have the same shapes and colours
as those used on buoys. Because of the variety of
beacon structures, the diagrams in these chapters
show mainly buoy shapes.
Until 2006, permanent and semi-permanent wrecks
were marked in the same way as other dangers; no
unique type of mark was reserved for them in the
IALA System. However the Emergency Wreck Marking
Buoy was introduced on a trial basis in 2006, and
formally adopted in 2010, For fufiher details see 7.1.
Colours
1.6
Red and green are reserved for Lateral marks, and
yellow for Special marks. Black and yellow or black
and red bands, or red and white or blue and yellow
stripes are used for other types of marks as described
later.
Shapes
1.7
Five basic shapes were defined when the System
was devised: Can, Conical, Pillar, Spherical and Spar.
Light floats and buoyant beacons are also used.
aI
tr Can Conical Spherical
Buoyage - Shapes (1.7)
Variations in the basic shapes may be common for
a number of years after the introduction o{ the IALA
System to a particular locality since much existing
equipment will continue in use.
ANNEX C
Can, conical and spherical buoys indicate by their
shape the correct side to pass.
2 Marks which do not rely on their shape for
identification carry the appropriate topmark whenever
practicable. However, in some parts of the world,
including US waters, light-buoys have identical shapes
on both port and starboard sides of Laterally-marked
(see channels, and are not fitted with topmarks.
s ln US waters, a buoy with a conical or truncated
conical top, known as a nun buoy, is used to mark the
starboard side of the channel.
Additionally, it will often be found in Baltic waters
that topmarks are not used on buoyage as a
consequence of their fragility in inclement weather.
mariner. Topmarks
1.8
1 Can, conical, spherical, X-shaped and *-shaped
topmarks are the only ones used.
On pillar and spar buoys the use of topmarks is
particularly important as the shape of the buoy has no
meaning, although ice or severe weather may
sometimes prevent their use or damage them beyond
recognition.
Lights
1.9
1 Where marks are lighted, red and green lights of
the IALA System are reserved for Lateral marks and
yellow lights for Special marks. Alternating blue and
yellow flashing lights are used for Emergency Wreck
Marking Buoys.
White lights, distinguished one from another by their
rhythm, are used for other types of mark.
2 It is possible that some shore lights, specifically
excluded from the IALA System, may by coincidence
have similar characteristics to those of the buoyage
system. Care is needed on sighting such lights that
they are not misinterpreted.
Retroreflectors
1.10
1 Two codes, the Standard Code and the
Comprehensive Code, are used for distinguishing
unlighted marks at night by securing to them, in
particular patterns, retroreflective material to reflect
back light. ln any specified area only one of the codes
is used. The code in use will, if known, be mentioned
in Admiralty Sailing Directions.
2 Standard Code uses the following markings:
Red Lateral marks: One red band or red shape ie
a square in Buoyage Region
I A or a triangle in Buoyage
Region B.
Green Lateral marks: One green band or green
shape ie a triangle in
Buoyage Region A or a
Spar
Preferred channel
marks:
square in Buoyage Region B.
As for red or green Lateral
marks, depending on the
dominant colour of the mark.
Special marks: One yellow band, yellow X or
yellow symbol.
Cardinal, One or more white bands,
lsolated Danger and letters, numerals or symbols.
Safe Water marks:
307
 General Scheme of Buoyage (Region A)

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€ Preferred Channels
+ Secondary Channels
The Lateral Buoyage marking the channels
is Red to Port, related to the Conventional
N,\A A
Direction of Buoyage. Off the coast, the
direction of buoyage in this area is from
east to west; within the estuary, it is the - I I
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direction taken by the mariner when
approaching from seaward.

NOTE (see Note) h

The SE wreck is a New Danger, too recent
to have been charted. See 1 .1 1.

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Examples of Buoyage (1.5.1)

Representation on charts (1
 General Scheme of Buoyage (Hegion B)

*- Prelerred Channels
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+ Secondary Channels
The Lateral Buoyage marking the channels
is Red to Starboard, related to the
N,\A A
Conventional Direction of Buoyage. Off the
coasi, the direction of buoyage in ihis area T
is from east to west; withjn the estuary, ii is - t a^l t
the direction taken by the mariner when
approaching f rom seaward.
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NOTE (see Note) h
The SE wreck is a New Danger, too recent
to have been charted. See 1 1 1

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Examples of Buoyage (1.5.3)

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Representation on charts (1.5.4)

309
 ANNEX C

Comprehensive Code uses the same markings for Water marks, which are given later in the descriptions
Lateral and Special marks, but separate markings for of those marks.
distinguishing Cardinal. lsolated Danger and Safe

NEW DANGERS
Definition an identical mark until the danger has been sufficiently
1.11 promulgated.
A newly discovered hazard to navigation not yet A quick or very quick flashing light will be
shown on charts or inc\uded in Sai\ing Directions, or exhibited from a New Danger mark, it it is \it. lt it is a
sufficiently promulgated by Notices to Mariners, is Cardinal mark, it will exhibit a white light, if a Lateral
termed as a New Danger. The term covers naturally mark, a red or green light.
occurring obstructions such as sandbanks or rocks, A racon, Morse Code (D), showing a signal length
and man-made dangers such as wrecks. of 1 mile on a radar display, may be used to mark a
New Danger.
Marking
1.12
Cardinal or Lateral marks, one or more, are used Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy
to mark New Dangers in accordance with the IALA 1.13
System. ln 2006 the Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy was
lf the danger is especially grave, at least one of the introduced on a trial basis and formally adopted in
marks will be duplicated, as soon as practicable, by 2010. (See 7.1).

310
 ANNEX C

CHAPTER 2
LATERAL MARKS
Use
2.1
Lateral marks are generally used for well-defined
channels in conjunction with a Conventional Direction
of Buoyage. They indicate the poft and starboard
sides of the route to be followed. See diagrams 2.1.1
and 2.1 .2.
Conventional Direction of Buoyage
2.2
The Conventional Direction of Buoyage is defined in
one of two ways:
Local Direction of Buoyage. The direction taken
by the mariner when approaching a harbour,
river, estuary, or other waterway from seaward.
General Direction of Buoyage. The direction
determined by the buoyage authorities, based
wherever possible on the principle of following
a clockwise direction around continents. lt is
usually described in Admiralty Sailing
Directions and, if necessary, indicated on
charts by the appropriate symbol. Diagram 2.2
illustrates how General Direction gives way to
Local Direction at the outer limit of the Thames
Estuary.
Around the British Isles the General Direction of
Buoyage runs N along the W coast and through the
lrish Sea, E through the English Channel and
through the Norlh Sea.
Preferred Channels
2.3
1 When proceeding in the Conventional Direction of
Buoyage, at the point where a channel divides to form
two alternative channels to the same destination, the
Preferred Channel is indicated by a modified Lateral
mark.
Colours
2-4
1 Red and green are the colours reserved for Lateral
marks.
Shapes
2.5
1 The System dictates that when buoys other than
pillar or spar buoys are used to mark the lateral extent
of a channel, Can Buoys shall be used to mark the
port side, and Conical Buoys to mark the starboard
side.
Topmarks
2.6
1 When fitted, port-hand marks carry can-shaped
topmarks, and starboard-hand marks carry conical
topmarks. These topmarks are parlicularly important
N when used on pillar or spar buoys. as they mirror the
designated buoy shapes (see 2.5 above).

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Notes:
1. Symbols shown are for multicoloured
Boulogne charts (See 8.3). Magenta symbols will
continue to be used on some charts.
LJ' 2. This diagram is representative for Region
^. A. ln Region B, the coloured dots are
reversed.

Local and General Direction of Lateral Buoyage (Dover Strait and Thames Estuary) (Region A) (2.2)

311
 ANNEX C

Lights Special marks

2.7 2.9
When exhibited, red and green lights are used for 1 Yellow coloured can and cone shapes may be used
Lateral marks. as Special marks in conjunction with Lateral marks for
Lateral marks for certain purposes have specified special types of channel marking. See 6.1.
rhythms:
Composite Group Flashing (2+1) for Preferred Marking of fixed bridges over navigable waters
2.10
Channel marks.
Quick Flashing or Very Quick Flashing for New 1 Best point of passage is the most appropriate
point to pass under a bridge, and is determined by the
Danger marks.
Other Lateral marks may have lights of any rhythm. competent authority taking into account all relevant
factors such as:
Sequence Maximum available headroom.
2.8 Water depth under the bridge, particularly where
lf marks at the sides of a channel are numbered or it is not uniform.
lettered, the sequence follows the conventional Protection of bridge piers and other obstructions.
direction of buoyage. The need to have one or two way traffic.

Marking of fixed bridges over navigable waters (2.9)

312
 Visual marks. The extent of the navigable channel
is marked as follows (See diagram 2.10):
ln Buoyage Region A: to port, a panel showing a
solid red square; to starboard, a panel
showing a solid green equilateral triangle, point
upwards
ln Buoyage Region B: to port, a panel showing a
solid green square; to starboard, a panel
showing a solid red equilateral triangle, point
upwards.
In both Regions, the best point of passage is
marked by a circular panel with red and white
vertical strlpes.
Note. Bridge spans other than those marked by the
red and green lateral marks prescribed above (eg
spans to be used by very small craft) may be
by Special marks (6.1).
indicated
By night, red or green rhythmic navigation lights
may be used to mark the extent of the navigable
313
7
channel, although in some cases the daymarks
described above may be floodlit. lf the navigable
channel occupies the full width of a span, some
authorities may floodlight the bridge piers alone.
The best point of passage ls indicated by a white
light or lights located under the span and exhibiting a
safe water mark character (5.1).
s Sound signals. One or more sound signals of any
type may be used to warn the mariner of the presence
of a bridge. lf a number of such signals are placed at
different points on the bridge, their character should be
different from one another.
6 Racons. A short range racon may be used to mark
the best point of passage under a bridge. Where two
racons are used to mark either side of a bridge span
they are coded:
Port: Morse Code B (-...)
Starboard: Morse Code T (-)
 ANNEX C

This diagram is schematic and in the case ol pillar buoys in particular, their features will vary with the individual design
of the buoys in use.
PORT HAND STARBOARD HAND
Colour: Red. Colour: Green.
Shape: Can, pillar or spar. Shape: Conical, pillar or spar.
Topmark (when fitted): Single red can. Topmark (when fitted): Single green cone point upward.
Retroreflector: Red band or square. Retroreflector: Green band or triangle.
o/"\.3
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DIRECTION H
OF BUOYAGE
E

$
LIGHTS, when fitted, may have any rhythm other than composite group flashing (2+1), which are used on modified Lateral
marks to indicate a preferred channel. Examples are:

Red light Green light

Q,R E Continuous-quick lighl Mo.e
FI.R SingleJlashing light ffiilnO
LFI.R Long-flashing light ilrn.e
Ft(2)R E Group-flashing light ffip4276
The lateral colours of red or green are frequently used for minor shore lights, such as those marking pierheads and the
extremities of jetties.
-
- PREFERRED CHANNELS

At the point where a channel divides, when proceeding in the conventional direction of buoyage, a preferred channel is
indicated by:

Preferred channel to starboard Preferred channel to port

Colour: Red with one broad green horizontal band. Colour: Green with one broad red horizontal band.
Shape: Can, pillar or spar^ Shape: Conical, pillar or spar.
Topmark (when fitted): Single red can. Topmark (when fitted): Single green cone point upward.
Retroreflector: Red band or square. Retroreflector: Green band or triangle.

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B
DIHECTION E
OF BUOYAGE

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Red light Green light

Ft(2+1)R Composite group flashing (2+1) light Ft(2+1)G

NOTES
Where port or starboard marks do not rely on can or conical buoy shapes for identification, they carry the appropriate
topmark where practicable.
lf marks at the sides of a channel are numbered or lettered, the numbering or lettering follows the conventional direction of
buoyage.
Special marks with can and conical shapes but painted yellow, may be used in conjunction with the standard Lateral marks
for special types of channel marking; see 2.8.
Lateral Marks - Region A (2.1.1)
314
This diagram is schematic and in the case of pillar buoys in particular, their features will vary with the individual design
of the buoys in use.
PORT HAND STARBOARD HAND
Colour: Green. Colour: Red.
Shape; Can, pillar or spar. Shape: Conical, pillar or spar.
Topmark (when fitted); Single green can. Topmark (when fitted): Single red cone point upward.
Retroreflector: Green band or square. Retroreflector: Red band or triangle.
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wffi /\tt A A.
Hor RECTION
HOF
AA
BUOYAGE

W& H

LIGHTS, when fitted, may have any rhythm other than composite group flashing (2+1), which are used on modified Lateral
marks to indicate a preferred channel. Examples are:

Green light Red light

Q,G CGffi Continuous-quick lighl Eo.n
FI,G ffiW Single-flashing light Zn.a
LF:.G ffi-il Long{lashing light Ztn.n
Ft(2)G w Group-flashing light Zn@a
The lateral colours of red or green are frequently used for minor shore lights, such as those marking pierheads and the
extremities of jetties.
PREFERRED CHANNELS

At the point where a channel divides, when proceeding in the conventional direction of buoyage, a preferred channel is
indicated by:

Preferred channel to starboard Preferred channel to port

Colour: Green with one broad red horizontal band. Colour: Red with one broad green horizontal band.
Shape: Can, pillar or spar. Shape: Conical, pillar or spar.
Topmark (when fitted): Single green can. Topmark (when fitted): Single red cone point upward.
Retroreflector: Green band or square. Retroreflector: Red band or triangle.

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ffi
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pll
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ornECTroN
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OF BUOYAGE H

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Green light Red light

Ft(2+1)G Composite group flashing (2+1) light Ft(2+1)R

NOTES
Where port or starboard marks do not rely on can or conical buoy shapes for identification, they carry the appropriate
topmark where practicable.
lf marks at the sides of a channel are numbered or lettered, the numbering or lettering follows the conventional direction of
buoyage.
Special marks with can and conical shapes but painted yellow, may be used in conjunction with the standard Lateral marks
for special types of channel marking; see 2.8.
Lateral Marks - Region B (2.1.2)
315
 ANNEX C

CHAPTER 3

CARDINAL MARKS

System description Shape

3.1 3.5
Cardinal marks are used to indicate where the r Cardinal marks do not have a distinctive shape, but
mariner may tind the best navigable water, relative to if they are buoys, will normally be either pillar or spar.
a point of interest. They are placed in one of the four
quadrants (N, E, S, W) defined as:
N Between NW and NE. Lights
E Between NE and SE. 3.6
S Between SE and SW.
li Cardinal marks are lit, they will exhibit white
lights, They are characterised by a group of quick or
W Between SW and NW. very quick flashes, which distinguish them as Cardinal
Cardinal marks take their name from the quadrant marks, and indicate their quadrant as follows:
in which they are placed. See Diagram 3.1. N Uninterrupted
The mariner is safe if he passes N of a North mark, E 3 flashes in a group
E of an East mark, S of a South mark and W of a
West mark. S 6 flashes in a group followed by a long flash.
The long flash (of not less than 2 seconds
duration)is to ensure that6 flashes cannot be
Uses
mistaken for 3 or 9.
3.2
Cardinal marks may be used to: W 9 flashes in a group
lndicate that the deepest water in an area is on
the named side of the mark. To aid the memory, the number of flashes in each
lndicate the safe side on which to pass a group can be associated with the clock face, thus:
danger. 3 o'clock East
Draw attention to a feature in a channel such as
a bend, junction, bifurcation, or end of a shoal. 6 o'clock South
9 o'clock West
Topmarks
3.3 Period. The periods of the East, South and West
Black double-cone topmarks are a very important lights are, respectively, 10, 15, and l5seconds if a
feature of Cardinal marks; they are carried whenever quick light, and 5, 10, and l0seconds if a very quick
practicable, with the cones as large as possible and light.
clearly separated. Rate. Quick lights flash at a rate of between 50 and
The arrangement of the cones must be memorised. 79 flashes per minute, usually either 50 or 60. Very
More difficult to remember than North (i) and South quick lights flash at a rate of between 80 and
(Y) are East (i) and West (I) topmarks; "W for l59flashes per minute, usually either 100 or 120.
Wineglass" may help.

Colours Retroreflectors
3.4 3.7
Black and yellow bands are the colours used for One or more white bands, letters, numerals or
Cardinal marks. symbols of retroreflective material are used in the
The position of the black band, or bands, is related Standard Code to distinguish unlighted Cardinal marks.
to the points of the black topmark, thus; Blue and yellow bands on the black and yellow
N Points up Black band above yellow band. parts of the mark are used in the Comprehensive
Code, thus:
E Points outward Black bands above and below
N Blue on the black parl and yellow on the yellow part
yellow band.
S Points down Black band below yellow band.
E Two blue on the upper black paft
W Points inward Black band with yellow bands S Yellow on the yellow parl and blue on the black paft
above and below. W Two yellow on the upper yellow pad

316
 ANNEX C

Colour: Black and Yellow

Shape: Pillar or spar (if a buoy)
Topmark: Two black cones
Retroreflector: Blueand/orYellow

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Retroreflector
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V V V
.
V
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A. .
NTEREST Retroreflector

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etroreflector I

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V V -
V V
Retroreflector f

I I
- q"
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Lights (when f itted)are white, Quick orVery

Quick;a South mark also has a Long Flash
immediately following the quick f lashes.

NOTES

f Retrof lectors illustrated are those of the
Comprehensive Code. ln the Standard Code
these marks are distinguished by one or
more white bands, letters, numerals or
symbols.
This diagram is schematic and in the case
of pillar buoys in particular, their features
will vary with the individual design of the
buoys in use.

Cardinal Marks (3.1)

317
 CHAPTER 4

ISOLATED DANGER MARKS

Use
4.1
lsolated Danger marks are erecied on, or moored
on or above, isolated dangers of limited extent which
have navigable water all round them. The extent of
the surroundlng navigable water is immaterial: such a
mark can, for example, indicate either a shoal which is
well offshore, or an islet separated from the coast by a
narrow channel.
Topmark
4.2
Black double-sphere topmarks, disposed vertically,
are a very important feature of lsolated Danger marks
and are carried whenever practicable.
Colours
4.3
lsolated Danger marks are black with one or more
red bands.
Shape
4.4
No significance is attached to the shape of lsolated
Danger marks, but in the case of buoys, pillar or spar
buoys are used.
Light
4.5
An lsolated Danger mark exhibits a white flashing
light showing a group o{ two flashes. The association
of two flashes and two spheres of the topmark may
help in remembering these characteristics"
Retroreflectors
4.6
One or more white bands, letters, numerals or
symbols of retroreflective material are used for
unlighted lsolated Danger marks in the Standard
Code.
One or more pairs of blue above red bands are
used in the Comprehensive Code.

Colour: Black and Red

Shape: Pillar or spar (if a buoy)
Topmark: Two black spheres
Retroreflector: Blue and Red

tTr-fl He)
Light (when f itted):White,Group-f lashing (2).

NOTES
f Retroflectors illustrated are those of the
Comprehensive Code. ln the Standard Code
these marks are distinguished by one or
more white bands, letters, numerals or
symbols.
This diagram is schematic and in the case
of pillar buoys in particular, their features
will vary with the individual design of the
buoys in use.

lsolated Danger Marks (4.1)

319
 ANNEX C

CHAPTER 5

SAFE WATER MARKS

Shape
5.4
Use
5.1
r Spherical, pillar or spar buoys are used as Safe
Water marks.
Safe Water marks are used to indicate that there is
navigable water all round a mark. Such a mark may Lights
be used as a centreline, mid-channel or landfall buoy, 5.5
or to indicate the best point of passage under a fixed r When lit, a white light, occulting, isophase, showing
bridge. a single long flash or Morse code (A) is used for Safe
Water marks.
Topmark lf a long flash (ie a flash of not less than
5.2 2 seconds) is used, the period of the light is
A red spherical topmark is a very important feature, 1 0 seconds,
particularly if the buoyis not spherical. lt is fitted
whenever practicable. Retroreflectors
5.6
Colours r One or more white bands, letters, numerals, or
5.3 symbolsof retroreflective material are used for unlit
Red and white stripes are used for Safe Water Safe Water marks under the Standard Code.
marks, and distinguish them from the black-banded Red and white stripes or bands are used in the
danger-marking marks. Comprehensive Code.

Colour: Red and White

Shape: Pillar or spar
Topmark: Red sphere
Retroreflector: Red and White

3 Ret roref lec tor f

E
0a[ T-r--I bo
H
or

f-f-I oc
f LFt.l2s
lT--I--I---a uo1n1
Light (when fitted): White, lsophase, or Occulting, or
Long-Flashing every 10 seconds, or Morse Code (A)

NOTES
f Retrof lectors illustrated are those of the
Comprehensive Code. ln the Standard Code
these marks are distinguished by one or
more white bands, letters, numerals or
symbols.
This diagram is schematic and in the case
of pillar buoys in particular, their features
will vary with the Individual design of the
buoys in use.

SafeWater Marks (5.1)

321

i
I
 ANNEX C

CHAPTER 6

SPECIAL MARKS
Use
6.1
Special marks may be used to indicate to
mariner a special area or feature, the nature of which
is apparent from reference to a chart, Sailing
Directions or Notices to Mariners. Special marks may
be lettered to indicate their purpose.
Uses include the marking of:
Ocean Data Acquisition System (ODAS) buoys.
Traff ic Separation Schemes where use of
conventional channel marking might cause
confusion, though many schemes are marked
by Lateral and Safe Water marks.
Spoil grounds.
Military exercise areas.
Cables or pipelines (including outfall pipes,
although many of these are marked by Lateral
Marks).
Recreation zones.
Another function of Special marks is to define a
channel within a channel. For example a channel for
deep-draught vessels in a wide estuary, where the
limits of the channel for normal navigation are marked
the by red and green Lateral buoys, may have the
boundaries of the deep channel indicated by yellow
buoys of the appropriate Lateral shapes, or its
centreline marked by yellow spherical buoys.
Topmark
6.2
r A single yellow X is the form of topmark used for a
Special mark, when one is carried.
Colour
6.3
l Yellow is the colour for Special marks.
Shape
5.4
r The shape of Special buoys is optional but must
not conflict with that used for a Lateral or Safe Water
mark. For example, an outfall buoy on the port side of
a channel could be can-shaped but not conical.

Colour: Yellow
Shape: Optional
Topmark: Yellow ! -optional
Retroreflector: Yellow

a
Retroref lector f
E
1\.r) a
or

NOA
fIZn.v
trtfafffA n61v
Light (when fitted):Yellow, and may have
any rhythm not used for white lights

NOTES

f Retrof lectors illustrated are those of the
Comprehensive Code. ln the Standard Code
these marks are distinguished by one or
more white bands, letters, numerals or
symbols.
This diagram is schematic and in the case
of pillar buoys in particular, their features
will vary with the individual design of the
buoys in use.

Special Marks (6.1)

Lights Composite group flashing.
6.5 Morse code letters, other than Morse Code (A),
When lit, a yellow light is exhibited from a Special (D) or (U).
mark. The rhythm may be any, other than those used 2 ln the case of ODAS buoys, the rhythm is group
for the white light of Cardinal, lsolated Danger and flashing with a group of 5 flashes every 20 seconds.
Safe Water marks. The following are permitted
examples: Retroreflectors
Group occulting. 6.6
Flashing. 1 Under the Standard Code, one yellow band, an X,
' Group flashing with a group of 4,5 or or a symbol are used for retroreflectors to distinguish
(exceptionally) 6 flashes. unlit Special marks.

324
 CHAPTER 7

EMERGENCY WRECK MARKING BUOY

lntroduction Topmark
7.1 7.3
The sinking of MV Tricolor in the Dover Strait in 1 lf fitted, the top mark is a standing or upright yellow
2002, the wreck of which was struck by two fufther cross.
ships in the days following her loss, brought into sharp
focus the effectiveness of responses designed to
adequately and quickly mark such new dangers and
prevent collisions. Colour
A new wreck can be very dangerous for shipping, 7.4
not only when its exact positlon is unknown, but even l The Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy is coloured in
when the position is known and the wreck properly equal number and dimensions of blue and yellow
marked. vertical stripes (minimum of 4 and maximum of
Until recently, new dangers have generally been 8 stripes).
marked by Cardinal or Lateral buoys, but weather
conditions, sea state and unknown facts about the
danger can all hamper timely marking. Shape
ln addition, the volume of traffic, background 7.5
lighting, and the proliferation of other aids to navigation The Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy is a pillar or
in the area may make the deployment of Cardinal or spar buoy, with size dependant on location.
Lateral marks difficult for Mariners to quickly identify a
new danger in the early stages of an incident.
Use Lights
7.2 7.6
The Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy exhibits an
- The Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy, introduced by
IMO on the recommendation of IALA, in 2006 (on trial alternating blue and yellow flashing light with a
until confirmed in 2010), is designed to provide a nominal range of 4 nautical miles (authorities are
highly conspicuous visual and radio aid to navigation. authorised to alter the range depending on local
It will be be placed as close to the wreck as poisible, conditions) where the blue and yellow 1 second
or in a pattern around the wreck, and within any other flashes are alternated with an interval of 0.5 seconds.
marks that may be subsequently deployed. e.g:
The Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy will be Bu1'0s + 0.5s + Y1 .0s + 0.5s = 3.0s
maintainedin position until: lf multiple buoys are deployed then the lights may
The wreck is well known and has been be synchronised.
promulgated in nautical publications i.e.
Notices to Mariners.
The wreck has been fully surveyed and exact Other aids to navigation
details such as position and least depth above 7.7
the wreck are known. r The Emergency Wreck Marking Buoy may be fitted
A permanent form of marking of the wreck has with a racon Morse Code "D" andlor an AIS
been carried out. transceiver.

Colour: Yellow and blue stripes

(minimum 4, maximum 8)
Shape: Pillar or spar

Topmark:

+ +

f-I]
At Bu1.0s+0.5s+y1.0s+0.5s
Light: Blue and yellow alternate flashing

Emergency wreck marking buoy (7.1)

325
 CHAPTER 8

CHARTING

CHART SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATIONS

lntroduction some years to complete. The older scheme using
8.1 magenta flares and symbols are shown in diagram
Chaft symbols and abbreviations for IALA marks 8.1.
are given in NP501 1 Symbols and Abbreviations
- Charts
used on Admiralty Paper and are illustrated in Colours
Diagram 8.1, but see paragraph 8.3 regarding 8.4
multicoloured charts. The shading of buoy symbols to indicate the
colours of buoys is no longer used. A black (ie
Conventional direction of buoyage filled-in) symbol is used for predominantly green marks
8.2 and for all spar buoys and beacons; an open symbol
On Admiralty charts, the Conventional Direction of is used for all buoys and beacon towers of other
Buoyage may be indicated by magenta arrow symbols, colours, but with a vertical line to indicate striped Safe
with appropriately coloured dots on multicoloured Water buoys.
chafts (see 8.3 below). The abbreviated description of the colour, or
ln some straits (eg. Menai Strait and The Solent) colours, ofa buoy is usually given under the symbol.
and in the open sea (eg. off the lrish coast at Malin Where a buoy is coloured in bands, the colours are
Head), where the direction changes, attention is drawn indicated in sequence from the top, eg E Cardinal
to its reversal by arrow symbols con{ronting each buoy Black with a yellow band BYB. lf the
other. - o{ the bands is not known, or
sequence - if the buoy is
On many coasts and in some straits world-wide, striped, the colours are indicated with the darker
buoyage authorities have noi yet established or colour first eg Safe Water buoy
promulgated a General Direction of Buoyage, so it is stripes RW. - Red and white
not possible to chaft the arrow symbol. This could be -
hazardous if a New Danger were to be marked by Shapes
Lateral buoys. 8.5
The symbol for a spar buoy is also used to indicate
Multicoloured charts a spindle buoy. The symbol will be sloped to
8.3
The UKHO began a programme of converting its a beacon symbol which is upright.
distinguish it from
Buoyant beacons are charted as light beacons.
metric charts from the traditional 4-colour scheme to a
lf the shape of a buoy in the IALA System is not
multicoloured format for all New Charts and New known, the symbol for a pillar buoy is used. See
Editions from 2010. Representations of how NP5011.
multicoloured charts will look are at diagrams 1.5.1.1
and 'l .5.2.1 on pages 14 and 15. Topmarks
This conversion affects the way buoyage is charted 8.6
as follows: Topmarks are shown boldly, in solid black except
Flares. The magenta flare is replaced by a flare when the topmark is red, when it is in outline only.
representative of the colour of the light. ln the See NP 5011.
case of white, yellow, amber and orange
lights, the charted flare is yellow. The magenta Radar reflectors
flare will continue to be used for the rare 8.7
occasions where the mark exhibits a violet On the introduction of the System, it was decided
light, or if more than one colour of light is not to chart radar reflectors. lt can be assumed that
exhibited from the same mark. most major buoys are fitted with radar reflectors.
Conventional direction of buoyage arrows.
The magenta arrow symbol remains lsolated danger marks
unchanged, but the spots now show red to 8.8
port and green to starboard (Region A) and The position of a danger is the centre of the symbol
green to port, red to starboard (Region B). or sounding indicating that danger. The symbol
See diagram 8.3 for further details. Mariners should indicating the lsolated Danger buoy will inevitably be
note that the chart conversion programme will take slightly displaced.

ALTERATIONS TO CHARTS
General information Notices to Mariners or by issuing New Editions ol
8.9 affected charts. Exceptionally, where the changes are
r When a system of buoyage is changed, corrections complex, two editions of the chaft may be made
enabling charts to be kept up-to-date will be available showing the old and new systems, until the
promulgated by the most appropriate means, either by change has been implemented.

.327 :'t-::,-
: ::l= ::lr:
==-=:-
 130 IALA Maritime Buoyage System
Where in force, the IALA System applies to all fixed and floating marks except landfall lights,^leading lights and marks. sectared lights and major floating lights.
Thestandardbuoyshapesarecylindrical (can) b.,conical fi,,sphericat Q,pillar l,,anaspa, l,butvariationsmayaccur,forexample: minortightftoats 4-
ln the illustrations below, only the standard buoy shapes are used. ln the case of fixed beacons (lit or unlit) only the shape af the topmark is af navigational significance.

1 30.1 Latgfal maf kS are generally for wetl-defined channels. There are two international Buoyage Regions - A and B - where Lateral marks differ

A preferred channel buoy may also be a pillar or a spar. All prefetred channel marks have three horizontal bands of colour.

130.2
On O Symtot showtng direction ot buoyage
/ \ where nat abviaus.
t_J
130.3 Cafdinal MafkS indicating navigable water to the named side of the marks. Cardinal marks have the same
meaning in Regions A and B
UNLIT MARKS LIGHTED MARKS

Topmark: 2 black cones Time (seconds)

Whtte tnnt 0 5 10 '5
"rtttitt
Period snown

North I VA I varrt
Mark /l orA 4 orOkFt
8v\ 8Y\

East Mark
East I va(qs" I uJnr,r,u" h---
8Y\ ' 8Y\

A!,
Black with yellow
soulh
YB
I volaytrt.tos !
\ ,"8\
t
ve*rtrc)+trt.ros HrnuF:irirrijrm
, band
I

West I vop)rot I vo*Hrgnos |tllltlm

Mark il arQ(9)15s /! ^,noirorrc"
- m
YB\ ,",\
The same abbreviations are used for lights on spar buoys and beacons.
The peilods, 5s, 10s and 15s, may not always be charted.

130.4 lsolated Danger Marks, stationed over dahgers with navigable water around them.
band(s)
Bady: black wilh red horizontat t I I I I I

Topmark:2blackspheres I
BRB
I
a.a I
;
A
anN
I
sAN
F(2) GpFt(2) White lighl

130.5 Safe Water Marks, such as mid-channel andi landfall marks.

Body: red and white vertical stripes lso, or I

Topmark (if anD: red sphere

61. I 6d
E}t/I Br7- B L
Oc, ar
LFl.10s, ot
Mo(A)
Occ White light

130.6 Special Marks, not primarily to assist navigation but to lndic..qie special features.

? +
Body: (shape optional): yellow I+
Ft Y Yetlow light
Topmark (if any): yellow X .h A I I o,.o".rrrrr- erc
" ln special cases yellow may be in
{"," v\ v- f arBuY
conjunction with another colour

Chart Symbols and Abbreviations (8.1)

 ANNEX C

130 IALA Maritime Buoyage System

Where in force, the IALA System applies to all f ixed and floating marks except landfall lights,-leading tights ancl marks, sectored lghts ancl majar flaating tights.
The standard buay shapes are cylindrical (can) E), conical -Q. , spherrcal a. pitla( l- una ,pu, I . but vanations mry occu, fo, erampte. minor t0ht ttoafs E&
ln the illustrations belaw, anly the standard buay shapes are used. ln the case af fixed beacons (lit or unlit) only the shape of the tapmark is of navigatianal sienificance

1 30.1 Latefal maf kS are generally for well-defined channels. There are two internatianal tsuoyage Regions - A and B where Lateral marks differ.
Port-hand Marks are red with
cylindrical topmarks {if any)
Lights are red and have any
FIEGICN
A dl 4
Port-hand Marks are green with
cylindrical topmarks (if any).
Lights are green and have any
REG^roN d
HA
I
Preferred channel
C)

iG
rhythm except Fl(2+1)R Prefefred channet E rhythm except Fj(2+1)G
D
I to Starboard
o I to Starboard

;!r(2+t)R,
if rit
f-l
o
iG\
Ich F1(2+1)G, if tit
B\
\IC GRG

IG\
i. I a I\ ( t,\
G\
- -
Preferred channel to Port
-starooaro-hand Preferred channel to Port

^4^nizitic'-itit Marks are green A^ Fl(2+1)R' lit

BcB if
starboard-hand Marks are red
_h
T
GRG
I6 wirh conical topma(ks (if any).
Lights are green and have any ,h
A
R
ittiJiitJlrlii'ii,i' iiZiit.
A
a rhythm except Fl(2+1)G
G A, Lighls are red and have any
rhythm except Ft(2+1)R

A prefetred channel buoy may also be a piilar ar a spar. All preferred channel marks have three horizontal bands of colour

130.2
Symbal showing direction af buoyage where
not obvious, on multtcoloured charts (red and
green circles coloured as appropriate).

1 30.3 Cafdinal MafkS inclicating navigable water to the named side of the marks. Cardinal marks have the same
meaning in Begions A and B
UNLIT MARKS LIGHTED MARKS
Topmark; 2 black cones Time (secands)
Whitetght ? ,? ,P ,:
Noryb Ma I
Per iod shown
NW \ B,ach abo\p \eilaA

North ! rl

ti/
VO
Marh i! or A
4
fi voxrt
orAkFl
BY B'/

" ':/
/ icr t vn/2tc. f t/nLrratcc L#
EastMark
B\B B\B

,t !,
Yellow with black Black with yellow
So //h I
iiar; _.
vo6),
a AtOi.LFl.15s
YBYB'
LFt.los I
!
t
votrtot- trt.tos
o,OkTl!6)-LFl.l5s
F---
m
band
t -l-*
TT w."t {votgtros
ttYB YB
A/a/^ t oratgtlbs
YB\
I
}6)
ve*rtrgno"
ar()kFilgrlss
're
rrrlEr-m

South lvlark The same abbreviations are used far lights on spar buoys and beacons.
Yellow above black The periods,5s, 1As and 15s, may nat always be charted.

130.4 lsolated Danger l\,4arks, stationed over dahgers wlth navioable water around them
Body: black with red honzontal band(s) t I t, I
Tooma,L: 2 blach sphercs White light
I
gRB I
BRB
7
BRB BRB
I Ft(2) GpFt(2)

130.5 Safe Water l\/arks, such as m d-channel and landfall marks

Body: red and white verttcal stripes

atl
I
lso, or
Occ White light
Topmark (if anl; red sphere
,A* AJ Oc, ar
LFl.10s, ot
Mo(A)

130.6 Special Marks, not primarlly to asslst nav gation but to ind cate spec a features
Body. (shape optianal): yellow
Topmark (if any): yellow X h A IYllvYBu\
"o | a I '' ' -i, o, o".Buy3s* etc
Yettow t@ht
' ln spec,at cases
;eltow mat
conjunction with another calour
De in ^
Chart Symbols and Abbreviations - Multicoloured Charts (8.3)

329