The distributions of navigation marks for the key tributaries of the Yangtze River trunk line are lack of uniform distribution principles and methods.We adopt the method of classification study according to the features of estuary topography and main channel layout,divide the estuaries into two types,which include coastal channel (or the main channel on the estuary side) type and the main channel and the tributary estuary have a certain distance type.We determine the types of navigation marks used for different types of river navigations,and propose the corresponding distribution schemes of navigation marks for different types of tributaries and estuaries in accordance with the general principles of marking the location of tributaries and estuaries,marking the intersection of the main and tributary channels,marking the boundary of the main channel and the tributary channel,and the obstruction of navigation,and suggesting information about tributaries and estuaries.It can provide references for the similar projects.