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All questions
Cardinal marks

What does a north cardinal mark indicate?

Short answer

Navigable or safer water is indicated on the north side of the mark

A cardinal mark is named for the compass side on which it indicates navigable or safer water. The name does not locate every part of the danger or specify a passing distance, so the chart and vessel's depth requirement still govern the route. For a north cardinal, use the north side and revise Cardinal Marks by Day and Night.

Quick check

What does a north cardinal mark indicate?