What Is the IALA Buoyage System?
The international buoyage language for marking channels, shoals and hazards – the standard answer to the question, 'Which side do I pass on?'
The IALA system is the international language of marine marks: buoys are laid out in a standard pattern to mark channels, shoals and hazards. The basic rule in Region A, which includes Turkey, is straightforward.
The table below sets out the main marks. The key thing to remember is the direction of reference: the red-port rule applies when entering from seaward into harbour, and is reversed when leaving.
IALA marks (Region A)
Mark | Meaning |
|---|---|
Red buoy | Leave to port (left) when entering from seaward |
Green buoy | Leave to starboard (right) when entering from seaward |
Cardinal (yellow-black) | Shows which side of the danger you should pass on |
Yellow buoy | Special area: swimming zone, fish farm, pipeline |
Reading buoys is like checking the chart in real time: channel marks show the safe dredged route through shallow water, while cardinals point you to the safe side of a rock that may look tiny on the chart.
A simple habit is enough: every time you spot a buoy, ask yourself three questions in your head - what type is it, what is it telling me, and which side do I pass on? At night, the characteristic light of each mark must be read; assuming a yellow buoy is 'nothing to worry about' is a mistake - it marks an area you should not enter.