Which type of buoys can sometimes be equipped with white lights?

Mid channel buoys are sometimes equipped with white lights primarily to enhance visibility and navigation safety. These buoys serve as navigational aids to indicate the center of a navigable channel, helping mariners maintain the correct course, especially during low-light conditions or night time. The addition of a white light allows for increased recognition of their location and purpose, reducing the risk of collisions or groundings.

In contrast, while marker buoys may have various colors and symbols to indicate specific spots or dangers, they are not typically designed with lights. Floating docks primarily serve as docking facilities and do not necessitate buoy-like lighting for navigation. Anchorage buoys, which designate areas suitable for anchoring, may also not feature lights, as their purpose is generally to provide a stable point for vessels to secure themselves rather than to guide them through a channel. In summary, mid channel buoys are uniquely positioned within navigational contexts to utilize lighting for enhanced mariner awareness and navigation safety.