International maritime signal flags are various flags used to communicate with ships. The principal system of flags and associated codes is the International Code of Signals. [1]

Here are their names and meanings, both International and/or specific to the Navy, as well as meanings when used in a Sailing Regatta. There is also a signaling system called Semaphore which uses the position of the flags relative to a person to denote the letter. See Flag Etiquette for guidelines on proper display of flags.

On 16 January 1899, commissioned ships of the United States Coast and Geodetic Survey were authorized to wear their own flag to distinguish them from ships of the United States Navy, with which they shared a common ensign.

Nautical flags are a specialized system of flags designed for use on ships and boats as a method of maritime communication. Each flag in this system represents a specific letter, numeral or signal, allowing sailors to convey messages across distances without verbal communication.

Nautical flags, also known as maritime signal flags, are a set of flags and pennants used to communicate messages between ships and boats. Each flag represents a specific letter, number, or message, allowing vessels to convey information even when verbal communication is …

Dec 18, 2024 · The history of maritime flags reveals how they evolved from simple designs to complex systems used globally for important messages. Every flag has a specific meaning, and sailors rely on them to convey instructions or alerts while navigating the open water.

Signal flags are used to communicate messages, at times because radio silence is required. Here are their names and meanings, both International and/or specific to the Navy, as well as meanings when used in a Sailing Regatta.

Feb 12, 2025 · Nautical flags are an essential aspect of maritime communication, allowing ships to send signals across long distances without verbal communication. These flags serve as a universal language, ensuring safety, coordination, and effective communication on the water.

Aug 9, 2023 · The Nautical Flag Alphabet uses a set of 26 distinctive flags, representing the letters A to Z, to communicate messages between ships and from ship to shore. Each flag represents a specific letter of the alphabet, allowing for the spelling out of words and phrases.

Jan 9, 2025 · Flags on vessels represent information about that particular vessel, the most obvious being the indication of the ship’s nationality. Every nation has its own flag, called ensign in maritime terms and it is flown to show where the vessel is registered. Also, naval ships use nautical flags to communicate with allied forces and their vessels.