What action should you take when you enter a harbor and see a buoy with red and white vertical stripes?

When you encounter a buoy with red and white vertical stripes, you should go around the buoy on either side. This type of buoy, typically referred to as a "preferred channel buoy," indicates that vessels should pass either to the left or right of it, depending on the designated channel directions.

These markings are vital for navigation as they help to keep vessels within safely navigable waters. The red and white striped pattern signifies that the buoy is marking a channel or a specific area where boaters are encouraged to navigate, particularly in areas where there may be risks of grounding or encountering obstacles.

Both dock directly next to the buoy and anchoring next to it are unsafe practices because the buoy serves as a navigational aid rather than a mooring point or anchorage. Ignoring the buoy would compromise safe navigation, posing risks not only to your vessel but also to others in the harbor. Thus, the most prudent action is to maneuver around the buoy as indicated by its colors and markings.