A buoy is a floating, anchored device used as a navigational aid to mark channels, warn of hazards (like wrecks or shallow water), or indicate specific water areas. Often brightly colored with distinctive shapes—such as conical, pillar, or can—they may include lights, reflectors, or sound signals to guide mariners safely.

Key Aspects of Buoys
Purpose: Primarily to aid navigation, designate safe channels, indicate mooring locations, or mark dangers.

Types: Lateral buoys indicate the side of a channel, while cardinal buoys indicate safe water in a specific direction, and special purpose buoys mark swimming areas or anchorages.

Features: They are anchored to the sea bottom to stay in a fixed position.

Lifebuoy: A specific type of buoyant device designed to be thrown to a person in the water for flotation.

Distinction: Unlike buoys, beacons are fixed, permanent structures.

Key Terminology
Can Buoy: A cylindrical buoy often used in pairs to mark a channel, usually green or red.

Conical/Nun Buoy: A cone-shaped buoy marking the side of a channel.

Lighted Buoy: A buoy fitted with a light for night navigation, often solar-powered.

Mooring Buoy: A buoy that serves as a permanent mooring place for vessels.