Maritime Flag Etiquette

National flags are called ensigns when flown on a ship.

Nautical flags are used to communicate with other vessels and ports of entry. Maritime flag etiquette depends upon a vessel's home country; however, a national flag is always flown in a place of honor to identify the ship's port of origin.

Placement

The national flag is raised before any other flags and flown throughout the day. The flag is hung at the gaff or at the stern of the vessel. Officer, personal and association flags are flown at lesser places of honor, depending on the vessel's purpose.

Visiting Courtesy

Vessels entering foreign waters or ports display the host country's flag on the ship's mast or bow. Depending on a country's protocol, a yellow "quarantine" flag may be displayed until the ship is given permission to berth.

Signaling

Ships use the International Code of Symbols to communicate with other vessels. These signals include message or letter flags and Morse code flag signaling. The signals are used to pass information, warn other vessels of danger and request aid.

Saluting and Half-Staff

U.S. vessels may fly the national flag at half-staff only when directed by the president or a state governor. However, vessels may briefly dip the flag as a salute when passing a recognized foreign warship.

References

• United States Power Squadrons: Flag Etiquette
• Sea Scouts: International Code of Symbols
• Sea Flags: U.S. Merchant Marine Flag Facts