Question 328Navigation General

The correct answer is D) safe water. Under the IALA Buoyage System, a spherical buoy marks the safe water in a channel or waterway. These buoys indicate that there is deep water all around the buoy, and that it is safe for vessels to pass on either side. The spherical shape is a distinctive feature that helps mariners identify these "safe water" markers. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) port-side markers are typically green can buoys, B) underwater cables are not typically marked with buoys, and C) hazards to navigation are marked with different shapes and colors, such as red nun buoys.