While steaming on course 280°T, you sight a buoy showing a very quick flashing (VQ) white light well to port. Maintaining course, you sight another buoy showing a quick flashing (Q) white light. How should you pass?

Correct Answer: Option B — north of the buoy

Very quick flashing (VQ) and quick (Q) white lights denote North cardinal marks under the IALA system. Passing north of the mark ensures safe water, as cardinal marks indicate that the deepest water lies on the named side of the aid.