Exercise: Read a route one mark at a time
You are coming in from sea on a practice route in Port Hacking. Work out what each mark asks you to do.
Step by step
A single red can-shaped lateral mark is ahead. Which side of your boat should it pass on as you travel upstream?
Show the solution
Upstream in NSW, keep a red port mark on your port side. A single mark still defines a side of the channel.
Next is a black-yellow-black mark with its two cone points facing away from each other. Where do you pass?
Show the solution
It is an east cardinal. Pass on its eastern side; the name gives the safe compass side.
You identify a yellow cone-shaped buoy used as a lateral mark. Travelling upstream, where do you keep it?
Show the solution
A cone-shaped special buoy used laterally is treated as a starboard mark. Keep it to starboard upstream. Handbook, p. 114.
A bridge span displays ball, cone, ball in a vertical line. What next?
Show the solution
This is a blocked or closed signal. Clearance alone does not make that span available. Handbook, p. 115.
Now on your own
Now you are returning towards the sea. Solve these without the guided answers.
Which side of your boat should a single green lateral mark pass on when you travel downstream?
A white light repeats six quick flashes and one long flash. Which side of the mark is safe?
A red-and-white vertically striped mark identifies a shipping-channel turning point. Where should you keep it as you pass?
The return tide is higher than on your outward trip. What should you do before passing under the bridge?