Ensign etiquette is derived from UK flag etiquette. It combines both law, what you must do, and maritime tradition, which covers the expected standards of behaviour within the seafaring community.
On a vessel, the most senior position for any flag is reserved for the ensign, flown as close to the stern as possible. It is usually the largest flag on board and indicates the vessel’s nationality.
In British maritime law, an ensign must be flown to designate a British vessel, whether military or civilian. The Red Ensign (or “Red Duster”) has represented British civil and merchant shipping since 1707. It features a red field with the Union Flag in the upper left corner (the “canton”).
Before flag conventions were standardised, a wide variety of ensigns existed, differing in colour and design, for vessels from England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other territories.
In the UK:
The White Ensign is flown by Royal Navy ships.
The Blue Ensign is flown by certain military, government, or affiliated vessels and yacht clubs.
Permission may be granted for an ensign to be “defaced” – that is, to display an approved emblem or badge on the right-hand side of the flag, known as the fly.
Maritime tradition also dictates that the Union Flag – primarily a land flag – must not be used as an ensign on civilian craft. Only military vessels are permitted to do so, and even then, only under strict rules and conventions.
In the 17th century, King Charles I ordered that the Union Flag be restricted to His Majesty’s ships “upon pain of Our high displeasure.” This decree was issued after merchant mariners falsely flew the flag to avoid paying harbour duties by masquerading as Royal Navy vessels.
A UK-registered vessel should therefore fly the national maritime flag, the Red Ensign, unless entitled to wear a special ensign. Displaying any unauthorised flag is a violation of British and international law.
Under the Merchant Shipping Act, a UK-flagged vessel must wear her ensign:
-
When entering or leaving a foreign port
-
When requested (“on demand”)
It is recommended that the ensign be worn at all times during daylight, especially when in sight of land or another vessel. In port, tradition dictates that the ensign is hoisted at 0800 hours and lowered at sunset, ceremonies known as “colours” and “sunset”, respectively.
Courtesy Flags
A courtesy flag (or courtesy ensign) is flown by a visiting ship in foreign waters as a token of respect. It is typically a smaller version of the host nation’s maritime flag.
Most countries use their national flag at sea, which sometimes leads to confusion in UK waters. Foreign visitors occasionally fly a Union Jack as a courtesy flag, but this is incorrect. The proper courtesy flag in the UK is always the Red Ensign.
Although there is no legal requirement to fly a courtesy flag, doing so acknowledges the laws and sovereignty of the host country. Failing to display one, or flying a damaged or faded flag, can cause offence, and in some nations may even result in a fine.
Traditionally, the courtesy flag is flown:
-
From the foremasthead of multi-masted vessels
-
From the starboard yardarm or crosstree on single-masted vessels
-
From the jackstaff if the vessel has no mast
Understanding ensign etiquette isn’t just about following rules, it’s about respecting centuries of seafaring tradition. Whether you’re cruising local waters or crossing oceans, flying the correct flag with pride and care reflects both good seamanship and international courtesy.
Lovesail.com is a global online dating and social networking site for sailing enthusiasts.
Join today to meet other like-minded, passionate sailors.
You must be logged in to post a comment.