What does a Cardinal Mark indicate regarding the safest water?

A Cardinal Mark indicates where the safest water can be found relative to a navigational hazard. The system uses cardinal marks to provide information about the direction of the safe passage past an obstacle, such as rocks or shallow waters. Each cardinal mark is designed to convey that the safest water lies in a specific direction; for instance, a north cardinal mark indicates that the safest water is to the north of the mark. This is essential for mariners to navigate safely around hazards.

The design and colors of cardinal marks are standardized and provide distinct signals: for example, they are typically painted in black and yellow or feature distinctive shapes such as a cone or a pillar. The ability to interpret these marks accurately is crucial for safe navigation, as mariners use them to determine their course and avoid dangers.