Which buoy is used to mark the starboard side in Region A?

In Region A of the IALA Maritime Buoyage System, the buoy used to mark the starboard side is the green conical buoy. This buoy is characterized by its shape and color, which plays a critical role in navigational aids. The conical shape is easily recognizable, allowing mariners to identify starboard-side boundaries effectively, especially in restricted or complex waterways.

The use of green color is standardized within this buoyage system to distinguish it from other buoy types. This clarity in color-coding and shape helps to ensure safe navigation, as vessels need to keep such buoys to port (on their left side) when proceeding into a harbor or up a channel.

In contrast, the other buoy types serve different purposes or indicate other navigational markers. The red and cylindrical buoy is typically used for marking the port side, while yellow buoys are designated for special purposes, such as marking isolated dangers or restricted areas. The black with red bands buoy is associated with specific navigational signals that are separate from those indicating starboard boundaries. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for safe maritime navigation and compliance with international buoyage systems.