Which marker indicates that a boat has limited maneuvering ability?
a) Red and white vertically striped buoy
b) Green and white horizontally striped buoy
c) Yellow buoy with an X
d) Blue and white checkered buoy
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is:
a) Red and white vertically striped buoy.
Explanation:
A red and white vertically striped buoy is used to indicate that a vessel has limited maneuvering ability. This marking is part of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) system of navigation buoys and is designed to alert other vessels to the presence of a ship that may not be able to move easily or adjust its course in response to traffic or obstacles. These buoys are typically used to identify vessels that are restricted in their ability to navigate due to their size, load, or specific operational constraints.
The purpose of marking a vessel with this buoy is to ensure the safety of navigation in busy or confined waterways. It communicates to other boaters that they must exercise caution and may need to give way to avoid potential accidents. For example, vessels like large ships, tugboats with barges, or those performing operations like dredging or underwater construction might be restricted in their movements and require more space.
Here is a breakdown of the other options:
- b) Green and white horizontally striped buoy: This buoy typically indicates a safe water mark, often signaling a route that is clear for navigation. It does not relate to a vessel’s maneuvering ability.
- c) Yellow buoy with an X: This marker generally refers to a diver’s down flag or is used to mark a location where divers are present, signaling caution for other vessels to stay clear.
- d) Blue and white checkered buoy: This buoy is used for mooring and does not indicate any restriction on a vessel’s maneuverability.
In summary, a red and white vertically striped buoy is the internationally recognized marker for a vessel with limited maneuvering ability, alerting other mariners to proceed with caution and respect the restricted nature of that vessel’s movement.