BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Module 06 - Markers and Buoys

Systems of Buoys in Canada

There are multiple systems of buoys and markers that are used on Canadian waterways to aid in navigation, these include:

The Lateral System: Consists of red and green buoys, which are used to mark preferred safe routes. The Lateral System also includes Fairway Buoys, Isolated Danger Buoys and Day Beacons.

The Cardinal System: Consists of yellow and black buoys that indicate safe routes to the north, south, east, or west.

Special Purpose Buoys: This system consists of yellow or white buoys that are used to convey specific information to boaters, and mark hazards or dangers such as racecourses, underwater structures, pipelines, etc.