When returning from the open sea and you see a red buoy, you should keep that red buoy on the right (starboard) side of your boat as you proceed in toward shore. This is remembered by the phrase “red right returning.”

Quick Scoop: What that red buoy means

  • A red buoy marks the right-hand edge of a navigational channel when you are returning from open water (coming back in toward harbor or upstream).
  • Your correct response is to steer so the buoy passes down your starboard (right) side and stay within the channel between the red and the corresponding green buoys.
  • A simple way to remember this:
    • “Red right returning” = red buoys on your right when coming back in.

So if the question is multiple‑choice, the best answer is:
Keep the buoy on your starboard (right) side as you return.

TL;DR: When returning from the open sea and you see a red buoy, adjust course so the buoy stays on your right side while you proceed inward.