BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Module 06 - Markers and Buoys

Aids to Navigation

Aids to Navigation or are a system of buoys and waterway markers. These markers each have their own identifying marks, colours and numbers that help boaters:

Determine their position
Identify any hazards and waterway obstructions.
Choose the most preferred, and safest route for their boat

Additionally, navigational aids can be instruments like an onboard compass or Global Position System (GPS) boaters can use to plot a boat's position and course on nautical charts, and other nautical publications.

There are two main navigational systems used on Canadian waterways, these are:

The Lateral System and,
The Cardinal System

Remember: Under the Criminal Code of Canada it is illegal to interfere or tamper with any navigation aid. Operators should never tie up to a marker, buoy, or any other navigational aid. In addition, it is illegal to alter, remove or conceal a signal, buoy or other type of navigation marker.