Final answer:
Fairway buoys can be painted with black and white stripes or solid colors, such as red or green, to mark the limits or direction of a fairway.
Step-by-step explanation:
The color of a fairway buoy can vary depending on its purpose and location. In some cases, fairway buoys are painted with black and white horizontal stripes, similar to a referee's uniform. These buoys are used to mark the limits of a fairway or channel, and the contrasting colors help ships navigate and stay within the designated route. Alternatively, fairway buoys may be painted in solid colors, such as red or green, to indicate the direction of a fairway. For example, red buoys may mark the port (left) side of the fairway, while green buoys mark the starboard (right) side.