Basic Rules Of The Road; Aids To Navigation - Monterey 180 FS Owner's Manual

The nautical rules of the road must be followed to prevent
collisions between vessels. Like traffic laws for automobiles,
the operator is legally required to follow the rules.
The following information outlines only the most basic of the nautical rules
of the road. For more information, contact your local U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary.

AIDS TO NAVIGATION

Learn to recognize the different buoys and day markers; they are the
signposts of the waterway. There are 2 primary marking systems in use in
the U.S.; the Uniform State Waterway Marking System (USWMS) used on
inland waters and maintained by each state, and the Federal Waterway
Marking System (FWMS) used on coastal waters and rivers and maintained
by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). In addition, the FWMS has two modified
systems; Western River Buoyage, and Intracoastal Waterway Buoyage. Be
sure to check with local authorities on the buoyage system in use.
The type of hazard/warning buoys and markers depends on the area of
jurisdiction. Check with local boating authorities.
USWMS System
In the USWMS Lateral System, well defined channels are marked with red
and black buoys. Lateral means the sides of the channel are marked and
the boat should pass between them.
The USWMS Cardinal System is used when there is no well defined
channel or where an obstruction may be approached from more than one
direction. With the cardinal system:
Chapter 2
Basic Rules
Of The Road
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WARNING
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