Coastal navigation: buoyage and cardinals with support to avoid mistakes at sea


Between harbor access channels, areas to avoid and crossing rules, yachtsmen have to make quick choices. To guide them, a visual and directional aid makes it easier to interpret buoyage, cardinals and helm rules. On board or at the chart table, it helps them decide on the right course.

Navigating between beacons, respecting priority rules and avoiding hazards require clear reflexes. A rigid PVC support, designed for immediate consultation on board, condenses the main safety and navigation rules. Designed by FlashTide, it covers the basics: fairway markings, cardinal marks and RIPAM steering rules.

A visual aid to understanding port buoyage

Understanding the direction of buoys according to the boat's orientation is a frequent difficulty in coastal navigation. This practical guide includes a directional ruler: pointing towards the harbor or the open sea, it instantly identifies which side to place the starboard (green) and port (red) buoys.

This tool recalls the rules of Region A (Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania) and complies with French regulations. It provides a realistic simulation of the situation, directly applicable on the water.

Directional reading of cardinal marks

Interpretation of the cardinal beacons is based on their geographical position and the danger to be avoided. By pointing the ruler northwards, you can visually identify the danger zone (in red) and the safe passage zone (in green). The ruler is color-coded for quick decision-making.

This approach is suitable for beginners and seasoned navigators alike. It avoids the misinterpretations that are common when reading a cardinal buoy for the first time.

Rules of the road: distinguishing between sail and motor at a glance

The cohabitation of sailboats and motorboats implies a perfect knowledge of the rules of priority. The guide features simplified diagrams: once oriented in the direction of travel, the ruler immediately indicates who needs to maneuver, depending on the situation.

This device provides an unambiguous reminder of the essential rules, whether in training or on the water. Users understand whether their boat has priority or not, in all RIPAM configurations.

A useful on-board tool for preparing for and passing your coastal license

In the learning phase, coastal license candidates need concrete teaching aids. This guide provides a visual summary of the main situations to be mastered for the exam, and is an effective complement to the theory courses and digital aids.

Thanks to its directional representations, it enables active memorization and practical use at sea. It reinforces the acquisition of automatisms and good reflexes at the helm.

Materials and design: a tool built to last

Made of crystal-clear PVC, the guide is designed to withstand marine conditions. Its size (190 x 110 mm) means it can be stored in a navigation pouch or used directly on a nautical chart.

Printed in four-color process, it remains legible in all weathers. Its plasticized surface ensures good resistance to sea spray and humidity, with no risk of altering the visual.

The ruler is available from FlashTide at ?17.90 (Tariff 2025)

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