What colors are used to identify the starboard and port sides of channels?

The correct identification of the colors used to mark the starboard and port sides of channels is foundational for safe navigation and understanding maritime signaling. Standard maritime practice dictates that the port side of a vessel is represented by red, while the starboard side is indicated by green.

This color coding is crucial for navigators, particularly when approaching a harbor or channel entrance at night or in low visibility conditions. By knowing that port is red and starboard is green, a captain can identify which side of the channel to steer toward, ensuring safe passage without grounding or collisions.

The other options do not align with conventional maritime color designations, making them incorrect. They either swap the colors for port and starboard or introduce colors that are not typically associated with channel markers. Understanding these color codes is essential for anyone operating a vessel, particularly when maneuvering in restricted waters.