Key buoy, Safe water mark buoy in North Sea, Germany
The key buoy is a navigational marker in the North Sea with vertical red and white stripes and a red spherical topmark. It indicates safe waters where vessels can navigate freely in any direction.
This navigational aid was established in the 17th century and represents one of the earliest marking systems in the North Sea. It documents a long tradition of maritime safety in the region.
Maritime navigation practices in Germany include the interpretation of safe water marks as essential indicators for commercial and recreational vessel operators.
The red and white design makes it easy to spot the buoy even in poor lighting conditions. A white light with regular flashing helps sailors confirm their position at night.
The buoy serves simultaneously as a fairway and mid-channel marker, which makes it especially useful for vessels approaching a harbor. This multiple function allows sailors to orient themselves quickly.
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