Boating License Practice Test

When returning from sea, a green navigational buoy indicates the starboard (right) side of the channel. Therefore, you should keep it on your starboard side as you enter the harbor or approach the shore. This is part of the "IALA system" for buoyage, which helps vessels navigate safely by providing clear signals about where it is safe to travel.

Passing the buoy on your starboard side aligns with the maritime rule that dictates which side to pass navigational aids. This orientation ensures that boats are navigating in a standard and predictable manner, which is crucial for safety, especially in busy waters.

The other choices do not align with standard navigational practices. Keeping it on the port side would mean you are approaching the buoy incorrectly and could lead to unsafe conditions. Approaching it head-on does not provide a clear passage and may cause confusion with other vessels. Igniting the signal horn isn’t applicable in this context as it does not pertain to the handling of a buoy but is generally used for signaling in low visibility or to communicate with other vessels.