Under the IALA-A Buoyage system, a buoy marking the port hand of the channel when approaching from seaward may NOT have a __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — conical shape

Under IALA-A, port hand buoys are red and may be can-shaped. Conical shapes are reserved for starboard hand buoys. Therefore, a port hand buoy cannot be conical. This system ensures visual distinction between channel sides, preventing confusion for mariners navigating in regions where IALA-A is the governing standard.