[Bubba]

Yes, they were "topped" markers. Specifically, for red, the boat should pass the spar on the south or west side. For black, the boat should pass on the north or east side. If traveling north and a red topped spar is on the west side of your line of travel and a black topped spar is on the east side of your line of travel, if you went between the markers you are putting your vessel and yourself in danger of hitting something. You should go on the "outside" of these markers.