Why Buoy Size Matters
Choosing the correct buoy for an AtoN station is critical to ensuring mariner safety, operational reliability and long‑term asset performance.
At Seaserve, we supply the full range of Class leading Sealite buoys, proven in UK waters, from 600 mm diameter for sheltered locations up to 3m diameter buoys designed for the most demanding offshore environments.
When selecting the correct Sealite buoy, here are some key considerations:
Buoy Size & Environment
- Larger buoy sizes are best suited to deeper water and more exposed locations, where buoyancy, stability and visibility at a distance are paramount.
Stability & Focal Plane Height
- Larger buoys generally offer a more stable platform for mounting a navigation light and allows the light to be positioned higher above the waterline. A higher focal plane increases the geographical range and helps ensure the light remains visible in swell conditions, when a smaller buoy might pitch or roll more significantly.
Flexibility vs. Fitness for Purpose
- Sometimes there is scope to optimise buoy size to align with the lifting capability of local service vessels and the available budget. However, underspecifying the buoy carries risk: a buoy that is too small for the environment can compromise its visibility, stability and ultimately the safety of mariners.
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