Final answer:
The numbers on buoys when entering a channel from seaward indicate the safe navigation route and are part of the lateral marking system.
Step-by-step explanation:
When entering a channel from seaward, the numbers on buoys indicate the direction to navigate safely.
These numbers do not indicate the distance from the shore, the depth of the water, the direction of the current, or the speed of the wind. Instead, they are part of a marking system, known as the lateral system, which is used to guide mariners. Buoys with odd numbers should be passed on the port (left) side when heading upstream while buoys with even numbers should be kept on the starboard (right) side.