USCG Exam PracticePlotting with variation and deviation (T-V-M-D-C)
Which of the following statements correctly describes why buoys alone cannot be used to fix the position of a towing vessel?
- ✓ Buoys are placed in approximate positions and may be moved by currents, ice, or vessel collisions, so they cannot fix a positionCorrect
- B. Buoys are not listed in the Light List and therefore cannot be used as navigational references
- C. Buoys may only be used as position references seaward of the baseline of the territorial sea
- D. Buoys are considered hydrographic contours and may only corroborate a GPS fix
Why A is correct
33 CFR §164.78(a)(3) states that buoys are placed in approximate positions and may not maintain exact charted positions because strong or varying currents, heavy seas, ice, and collisions with vessels can move or sink them or set them adrift. They may corroborate a position fixed by other means but cannot fix a position.
Cited:33 CFR §164.78