Sometimes a channel splits into 2. In this case, the preferred channel is the the shape and dominant color of the brand .
In our example (beacon zone A), coming from the sea, we'll follow the main channel on the left (big arrow). In fact, our beacon has a conical shape and is domain green. The small arrow indicates a secondary channel.
The preferred channel is starboard
Color: red-green-red
Indicator: red cylinder
Light: red 2 flashes grouped + 1 flash
The preferred channel is on the port side
Color: green-red-green
Indicator: green cone
Light: green 2 flashes grouped + 1 flash
ATTENTION the International Association of Maritime Signals (IALA) manages the buoyage system. The IALA has divided the world into 2 zones, A and B. Zone A buoyage is used worldwide, except on :
- the american continent
- west Indies
- japan
- korea
- the Philippines
In B zones, the marks are reversed.
