In the typical red-right-returning buoyage system, what do red and green buoys signify?

• A. Red buoys mark the starboard side; green buoys mark the port side; when returning to port, red markers should be kept on the right
• B. Red buoys mark port side; green buoys mark starboard side; when returning to port, green markers should be kept on the right
• C. Red buoys mark safe water; green buoys mark danger
• D. Red buoys indicate speed restrictions; green buoys indicate no-wake zones

Answer: (B)

Red-right-returning means red buoys mark the starboard (right) side of the navigable channel and green buoys mark the port (left) side. When returning to port, you keep red markers on your right and green markers on your left. This setup creates a clear corridor to stay in safe water, so you should pass between the red on your right and the green on your left.