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Course Outline

Safe Water Markers: These are white with red vertical stripes and indicate unobstructed water on all sides. They mark mid-channels or fairways and may be passed on either side.

Safe water marker—lighted buoy
Safe water markers—red and white stripes

Mooring Buoys: These are white with a blue horizontal band. They usually are placed in marinas and other areas where boats are allowed to anchor. These are the only buoys you may tie up to legally.

Mooring buoy—cylinder
Mooring buoy—sphere

Inland Waters Obstruction Markers: These are white with black vertical stripes and indicate an obstruction to navigation. You should not pass between these buoys and the nearest shore.

Inland Waters Obstruction Marker
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