Aids to Navigation Flashcards
6 cards from real Coast Guard Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Aids to Navigation flashcards as text
What does a daybeacon with a red triangular shape indicate?
Answer: Starboard side of channel when returning from sea
Red triangular daybeacons mark the starboard side of the channel when returning from sea, consistent with the 'Red Right Returning' rule.
What does a preferred channel mark (junction buoy) indicate?
Answer: A channel junction where the preferred channel is indicated by the top band color
A preferred channel mark indicates where a channel divides; the top band color shows the preferred channel — red top means keep it to starboard, green top means keep it to port when entering.
What is the purpose of a 'Notice to Mariners'?
Answer: To inform mariners of changes to navigational aids, charts, and hazards
Notices to Mariners are weekly publications that inform mariners of changes to lights, buoys, charts, hazards, and regulations affecting safe navigation.
How is a lighted buoy different from an unlighted buoy?
Answer: A lighted buoy has a battery or solar-powered light that flashes a characteristic signal
Lighted buoys have a light mounted on top that displays a characteristic flash pattern to assist navigation at night and in reduced visibility conditions.
What does an isolated danger mark indicate?
Answer: A danger with navigable water surrounding it
An isolated danger mark is placed directly on or above a hazard that has navigable water all around it, warning mariners to pass clear on all sides.
What is the meaning of a quick-flashing light on a buoy?
Answer: The buoy marks a point requiring special caution, such as a channel bend or junction
Quick-flashing lights (flashing more than 50 times per minute) are used to mark points requiring extra attention, such as channel bends, junctions, or isolated dangers.