What color are safe water buoys in the IALA system?

In the IALA system, safe water buoys are painted in red and white vertical stripes. These buoys are specifically designed to indicate safe waters and mark the fairway or a ship channel. They serve as a navigational aid that communicates to mariners that there are navigable waters ahead, where it is safe to pass. The red and white colors are distinct and easily recognizable, signaling to mariners that these are safe water markers, which helps ensure safe navigation.

This color scheme is standardized under the IALA buoyage system to provide consistency and improve navigational safety across various maritime regions. The red and white vertical stripes make it easy for mariners to identify safe water areas from a distance, promoting a smoother and safer navigation experience.