What are daymarks primarily used for?

Daymarks are primarily used to provide directions and information to mariners navigating waterways. These navigation aids are typically visible during daylight hours and often contain distinctive colors, shapes, and messages that help boaters orient themselves and understand the navigational environment. They serve as important visual markers that can indicate the course to follow, nearby landmarks, or instructions about navigation rules.

While daymarks can sometimes indicate safe water areas, their main purpose is not limited to that function. They are not solely focused on marking hazards or signaling reserved zones either; those roles are often reserved for other types of aids like buoys and specialized markers. Instead, daymarks play a crucial role in the overall navigation system by providing essential information that helps ensure safe and effective boating.