A gong buoy is a cylindrical buoy used to mark channels, harbors, or other marine locations. It is also known as a bell-buoy, and it is a type of navigational aid. Another synonym for gong buoy is a bell buoy. It is called a bell buoy because it produces a sound that resembles that of a bell. Other synonyms for a gong buoy include a warning buoy, marker buoy, and navigation buoy. These buoys are generally used to designate a specific area that is dangerous, or to indicate a change in water depth. They are often fitted with lights to make them visible at night.