yacht racing signal flags

Sailboat Racing Flags and Signals

Are you ready to hit the open water and expe­ri­ence the exhil­a­rat­ing world of sail­boat rac­ing? Before you set sail, it’s cru­cial to under­stand the mean­ing behind the var­i­ous flags and sig­nals used dur­ing races . In this arti­cle, we’ll dive into the Inter­na­tion­al Code of Sig­nals, explore prepara­to­ry, course, protest, aban­don­ment, penal­ty, safe­ty, and emer­gency sig­nals.

Get ready to nav­i­gate the rac­ing scene with con­fi­dence and sail towards vic­to­ry!

Key Take­aways:

• The Inter­na­tion­al Code of Sig­nals con­sists of 26 flags and 10 numer­al pen­nants , which are used for safe­ty and com­mu­ni­ca­tion on the water.
• Prepara­to­ry flags and sig­nals such as the ‘P’ flag, ‘I’ flag, ‘S’ flag, and ‘X’ flag are cru­cial for sailors to under­stand and respond to, as they indi­cate impor­tant instruc­tions and changes in the race .
• Course and mark sig­nals pro­vide infor­ma­tion about the direc­tion to sail and the marks them­selves, help­ing sailors nav­i­gate the race­course effec­tive­ly and make informed deci­sions.
• Protest flags and sig­nals, includ­ing the red flag with a white cross, blue flag, yel­low flag, and red flag, are impor­tant for ensur­ing fair com­pe­ti­tion and resolv­ing dis­putes between boats.

Table of Con­tents

The International Code of Signals

You should learn the Inter­na­tion­al Code of Sig­nals, as it con­sists of 26 flags and 10 numer­al pen­nants that can con­vey impor­tant mes­sages while sail­ing. These sig­nals are essen­tial for main­tain­ing safe­ty and com­mu­ni­ca­tion on the water. By famil­iar­iz­ing your­self with this code, you can ensure that you’re pre­pared for any sit­u­a­tion that may arise while sail­ing.

The Inter­na­tion­al Code of Sig­nals is a uni­ver­sal sys­tem used by sailors around the world . Its sim­plic­i­ty and effec­tive­ness make it a valu­able tool for com­mu­ni­ca­tion at sea. Each flag and pen­nant rep­re­sents a spe­cif­ic mes­sage or instruc­tion , allow­ing sailors to con­vey impor­tant infor­ma­tion with­out rely­ing on ver­bal com­mu­ni­ca­tion.

Learn­ing the Inter­na­tion­al Code of Sig­nals is par­tic­u­lar­ly impor­tant for those who desire free­dom on the water. By under­stand­ing and using these sig­nals, you can com­mu­ni­cate with oth­er boats, request assis­tance, or inform oth­ers of poten­tial dan­gers. This knowl­edge empow­ers you to nav­i­gate the open seas con­fi­dent­ly and inde­pen­dent­ly.

In addi­tion to enhanc­ing your safe­ty, know­ing the Inter­na­tion­al Code of Sig­nals also allows you to ful­ly immerse your­self in the sail­ing com­mu­ni­ty. It’s a lan­guage shared by sailors world­wide, con­nect­ing you to a glob­al net­work of adven­tur­ers who share your love for the sea.

Preparatory Flags and Signals

Make sure to brush up on the mean­ing of the prepara­to­ry flags and sig­nals before your next sail, as they can indi­cate impor­tant infor­ma­tion about the race or event. These flags and sig­nals are essen­tial for every sailor who desires the free­dom to com­pete in sail­boat rac­ing.

When you see the prepara­to­ry flag ‘P,’ it sig­nals that the race is about to start, and you should be ready to go . Anoth­er impor­tant sig­nal is the ‘I’ flag, which indi­cates a change in the start­ing line . Pay atten­tion to this flag, as it could affect your strat­e­gy and give you a com­pet­i­tive advan­tage.

Dur­ing the race, you may encounter the ‘S’ flag, which means you must take a penal­ty for a rule infringe­ment . Don’t ignore this flag, as it could cost you valu­able time and posi­tion. Addi­tion­al­ly, the ‘X’ flag indi­cates that the race has been aban­doned or post­poned . If you see this flag, be pre­pared to fol­low the instruc­tions giv­en by the race com­mit­tee.

Under­stand­ing and respond­ing to these prepara­to­ry flags and sig­nals is cru­cial for any sailor who val­ues their free­dom to com­pete in sail­boat rac­ing. So, take the time to famil­iar­ize your­self with them and be ready to nav­i­gate the race­course with con­fi­dence and skill.

Course and Mark Signals

When approach­ing a mark, be sure to keep an eye out for the appro­pri­ate course and mark sig­nals to nav­i­gate the race­course effec­tive­ly. These sig­nals are cru­cial for your suc­cess as a sailor. Free­dom is at the core of sail­boat rac­ing, and under­stand­ing these sig­nals will give you the free­dom to make informed deci­sions on the water.

As you approach a mark, look for the course sig­nal dis­played by the race com­mit­tee . This sig­nal indi­cates the direc­tion you need to sail after round­ing the mark. It could be a sim­ple arrow point­ing left or right, or it may con­sist of mul­ti­ple arrows indi­cat­ing a more com­plex course. Pay atten­tion to this sig­nal to ensure you take the cor­rect path and stay on course.

In addi­tion to the course sig­nal, keep an eye out for mark sig­nals . These sig­nals pro­vide impor­tant infor­ma­tion about the mark itself. They can indi­cate a change in the mark’s posi­tion, a change in the round­ing direc­tion, or even a change in the mark itself . Under­stand­ing these sig­nals will help you antic­i­pate any changes in the race­course and adjust your strat­e­gy accord­ing­ly.

Protest Flags and Signals

When you see a protest flag in sail­boat rac­ing, it’s impor­tant to under­stand its mean­ing. The most com­mon protest flag is a red flag with a white cross, indi­cat­ing that a boat is protest­ing anoth­er boat for a rule vio­la­tion.

If you find your­self in a protest sit­u­a­tion, it’s cru­cial to know how to resolve it prop­er­ly to ensure fair com­pe­ti­tion.

Meaning of Protest Flags

You should famil­iar­ize your­self with the mean­ing of protest flags before par­tic­i­pat­ing in sail­boat rac­ing. Under­stand­ing these flags is essen­tial to ensure fair com­pe­ti­tion and main­tain the free­dom that rac­ing rep­re­sents.

Here are three impor­tant protest flags and their mean­ings:

• Blue Flag : This flag indi­cates that a boat intends to protest anoth­er boat for break­ing a rule. It’s impor­tant to keep a close eye on this flag, as it sig­ni­fies a poten­tial dis­pute between com­peti­tors.
• Yel­low Flag : When this flag is dis­played, it means that a protest hear­ing is being held. This flag warns all par­tic­i­pants to be cau­tious and respect­ful dur­ing the hear­ing process.
• Red Flag : The red flag is raised when a protest has been with­drawn. It sig­ni­fies that the dis­pute has been resolved or aban­doned.

Common Protest Signal

Don’t under­es­ti­mate the sig­nif­i­cance of famil­iar­iz­ing your­self with the com­mon protest sig­nal dur­ing sail­boat rac­ing. It’s cru­cial to under­stand this sig­nal as it can great­ly impact your race and the free­dom you desire on the open water.

When you see a boat rais­ing a protest flag, typ­i­cal­ly a red flag, it means that they believe anoth­er boat has vio­lat­ed a rac­ing rule. This sig­nal sig­ni­fies their inten­tion to file a protest against the oth­er boat’s actions.

As a sailor, know­ing this sig­nal allows you to be proac­tive in avoid­ing poten­tial con­flicts and ensur­ing fair com­pe­ti­tion. By being aware of the com­mon protest sig­nal, you can nav­i­gate the race­course with con­fi­dence, know­ing that you’re respect­ing the rules and uphold­ing the free­dom that sail­boat rac­ing rep­re­sents.

Resolving Protest Situations

To effec­tive­ly resolve protest sit­u­a­tions dur­ing sail­boat rac­ing, it’s impor­tant that you remain calm and coop­er­ate with the race offi­cials. Remem­ber, your free­dom to enjoy the race depends on your abil­i­ty to han­dle these sit­u­a­tions with grace and respect.

Here are three key points to keep in mind:

• Com­mu­ni­cate clear­ly: When pre­sent­ing your protest, make sure your mes­sage is con­cise and eas­i­ly under­stood. Use sim­ple lan­guage and avoid any unnec­es­sary aggres­sion or hos­til­i­ty.
• Fol­low pro­ce­dures: Famil­iar­ize your­self with the rules and reg­u­la­tions of the race. Under­stand the prop­er steps to take when fil­ing a protest and be pre­pared to pro­vide any evi­dence or wit­ness­es that sup­port your case.
• Be open to com­pro­mise: Some­times, find­ing a mid­dle ground is the best way to resolve a protest sit­u­a­tion. Lis­ten to the oth­er par­ty’s per­spec­tive and be will­ing to nego­ti­ate a solu­tion that’s fair for every­one involved.

Abandonment Flags and Signals

Grab the binoc­u­lars and look for any aban­don­ment flags or sig­nals on near­by boats. As a sailor who desires free­dom, you under­stand the impor­tance of being aware of poten­tial dan­gers on the water. Aban­don­ment flags and sig­nals are cru­cial in ensur­ing the safe­ty of all sailors. These flags and sig­nals indi­cate that a boat or its crew may require assis­tance or are in need of imme­di­ate res­cue. By spot­ting these flags or sig­nals, you can take action and pro­vide the nec­es­sary help, ensur­ing that every­one can con­tin­ue enjoy­ing the free­dom of sail­ing.

To help you bet­ter under­stand the var­i­ous aban­don­ment flags and sig­nals, here is a table high­light­ing some of the most com­mon­ly used ones:

Penalty Flags and Signals

Keep an eye out for any penal­ty flags or sig­nals, as they can indi­cate rule vio­la­tions and affect the out­come of the race. In sail­boat rac­ing, it’s cru­cial to under­stand the mean­ing behind these flags and sig­nals to ensure fair com­pe­ti­tion and main­tain the spir­it of free­dom on the water. Here are three key points to con­sid­er:

• Penal­ty flags: These flags are raised by race offi­cials to indi­cate a rule vio­la­tion by a boat. The flags come in dif­fer­ent col­ors, such as yel­low or blue, and are typ­i­cal­ly dis­played along­side a num­ber, rep­re­sent­ing the spe­cif­ic rule bro­ken. Be vig­i­lant in spot­ting these flags, as they can result in time penal­ties or dis­qual­i­fi­ca­tion.
• Sig­nals from oth­er boats: Pay atten­tion to the actions of oth­er boats around you. If a com­peti­tor rais­es a flag or makes a spe­cif­ic hand sig­nal, it could be a warn­ing that you have vio­lat­ed a rule. Keep an open mind and be ready to adjust your tac­tics to avoid penal­ties.
• Com­mu­ni­ca­tion with race offi­cials: If you have any doubts or con­cerns about a poten­tial rule vio­la­tion, don’t hes­i­tate to con­tact the race com­mit­tee. They’re there to ensure fair­ness and resolve any dis­putes that arise dur­ing the race. Main­tain a respect­ful and open line of com­mu­ni­ca­tion to uphold the prin­ci­ples of free­dom and fair play.

Safety and Emergency Signals

If you encounter any safe­ty or emer­gency sig­nals dur­ing the race, please fol­low the instruc­tions pro­vid­ed and ensure the well-being of your­self and oth­ers. Your safe­ty is of utmost impor­tance, and it is cru­cial to under­stand the mean­ing behind these sig­nals. To help you nav­i­gate the race course, here is a table out­lin­ing some com­mon safe­ty and emer­gency sig­nals you may encounter:

So, now you know the var­i­ous sail­boat rac­ing flags and sig­nals used in com­pe­ti­tions. The Inter­na­tion­al Code of Sig­nals pro­vides a stan­dard­ized sys­tem for com­mu­ni­ca­tion on the water.

From prepara­to­ry flags to protest flags, each sig­nal plays a vital role in ensur­ing fair and safe races. Under­stand­ing these sig­nals is cru­cial for all sailors and race offi­cials.

By fol­low­ing the cor­rect flags and sig­nals, par­tic­i­pants can nav­i­gate the race­course effec­tive­ly and respond appro­pri­ate­ly to any emer­gen­cies or penal­ties that may arise.

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Signal Flags And Their Meanings

Last Updated by

Capt Chris German

June 15, 2022

Signal flags harken back to a bygone era before VHF and cell phones. At one time, flags were the cornerstone of every well operated ship or military unit’s communication system, signaling maneuvers, emergencies and other general information for crew and comrades to receive with fear and trepidation.

All too often now, signal flags are reserved for senior citizen sailors with their weekend power squadron exercises and colorful adornment for the local Yacht Club Martini Mixer.

But deep in the annals of the internet, I found several uses for signal flags that have otherwise been forgotten and it is because they have been forgotten by the masses that their function is brought into question.

After all, a signal or message is only useful if someone is there to understand it. Much like fog signals, if a horn blows and no one knows what it means, is it really a signal or just noise pollution?

If a flag that is flown without anyone's understanding is it a useful flag?

One of the most recognizable flags we have is Old Glory and the only reason she is so revered is because we all think we know what she stands for.

What if, like the rotary dial phone, all the Millennials all stopped knowing what Old Glory stood for, would we still have a reason to fly it?

I was talking with my father-in-law, an Annapolis Grad (class of ‘69) and long time Navy Pilot who flew with the fleet from New Zealand to New York and everywhere in between. If anyone was supposed to know what a “Zulu” flag looked like, it was him.

But alas his Navy training failed him when we started to quiz him on the signal flag alphabet one afternoon last Christmas. Blame it on the wassail if you will, but when the Captain forgets a flag, one must begin to question it’s efficacy as a universally understood signal.

If you want to join the sailing nerd and sea scouts and memorize the entire alphabet and number system of signal flags for posterity, perhaps you would like to know some of the other uses signal flags might offer to common (or not so common) sailors.

Table of contents

Racing Signals

First up, its racing signals. Spend enough time in the beer can races and you're bound to see a committee boat sporting a few signal flags every once in a while.

They are used to indicate info about races and course changes to a fleet. They are far more functional than a radio in a dinghy race, as lasers tend to flip and vhfs tend to sink.

So using a signal flag for all to see is much more effective and certainly a ton more salty. I sourced this description of racing meanings from sailing flags here .

Most big name yacht clubs and racing syndicates use flags and horns in a regatta to some degree or another, but only the most preeminent do so with any kind of standardized manner.

Generally speaking the more hoity toity the yacht club, the more they use flags in their races because they want to (a) be elitist and (b) can afford to buy the flags which retail for big bucks.

But if you find yourself aboard a committee boat in South Africa you best review the flags at the link above - but for everyone else, here’s a sample:

Common Flags

While the racing world has co-opt the use of flags for regattas, there remains other uses for signal flags which if your savvy can be quite useful when cruising to strange International ports of call or miraculously time travel to the decks of a World War II aircraft carrier.

These uses have included the most commonly known flags such as the diver down flag or Alpha flag and the courtesy flags which don’t seem to have any standardized meaning at all but are used in all sorts of ports from Berma to Bimini.

And in this day and age, international cruisers are well aware of the ‘Q” flag which is used to indicate that a newly arrived vessel is free of disease.

In other times this flag meant a “quarantine” was in effect for your boat when arriving in new ports of call but that signal has been replaced by the Lima Flag indicating that one is to stop all operations immediately.  

If you aim to island hop in the little latitudes you would be well to understand and commit these most commonly used flags to memory, but just in case, hang on to the others in the back of your mind.

You can get a great run down of the flags by looking at any Sea Scouting Manual or by going here .

Buying Signal Flags

If you want to run out and get yourself a set of signal flags, be aware that there are lots of cheap knock offs and many that aren’t worth the $300 price tag they soak you for at your local marina.

Signal flags should be made of durable canvas or nylon. Brass grommets and sturdy cotton lines should be part of the package and make sure they are large enough to be seen from a distance.

Those little 6 inch jobs don’t cut it from a mile and half off though sea spray and blowing sand. Mine are at least 36” long and can be seen from Space if Google ever decides to look my way again.

I must admit I love my flags. I inherited an almost complete set from a boat that I dreamed of restoring that was raced in the Washington DC area for 20 years.

When I pulled them out the stink-drenched hull, they smelled like diesel and were coated with black mold. But a soak in laundry detergent and an airing in a stiff Carolina breeze on a sunny day and they were much more tolerable.

So much so that my wife didn’t make me throw them out. I used them to celebrate the holidays by dressing ship in my Hunter at Cape Lookout on the 4rth of July and Labor Day and as a marketing ploy to get people to want to take sailing lessons from me on the waterfront of Beaufort.

I dreamed of stringing them up the front and down to the stern in my 42’ endeavour but alas Hurricane Florence took her before I could ever dress her up, so I stuck them in storage in a laundry basket and will use them once I acquire my dream boat, a 60 foot catamaran from Australia.

Given that they are so expensive, $315 for a small set from Landfall Navigation I would suggest reading the manufacturer’s methods on care.

Caring For Your Flags

Make sure you let them dry out before packing them away, even on a sunny day. The mere fact that they are flown by the water means they will acquire moisture that will rot them in a matter of days if packed away wet.

I would also suggest you treat them as you would your sails.

• A gentle detergent and lots of fresh water every spring and fall.
• Fly them regularly to make sure they don’t get stiff or dry rot.
• Pack them in a waterproof bag or tote and if you can find them, throw in a few packs of those silica desiccants to dry up any ambient moisture and keep them fresh.
• You can also treat them with tea tree oil to inhibit mold and mildew growth and slow down fading.

Dressing Ship

Now let’s talk about “dressing ship”. There is a way to do it and a way not to do it.

Too many lines and halyards can create havoc on a windy day and the worst is if one comes undone and you fly your halyard.

My recommendation is use your jib halyard and attach it to the middle of the string of flags and pull the flags up that way, fore and aft.

You can run one string up the forestay with the jib halyard and one up the back stay with the main halyard but then you have no main halyard to fly Old Glory off the back stay and double your chances of flying your halyard if something goes wrong.

Some say you should alternate number pennants and letter flags, but I say use what you got and fly em proudly.

If you’re on the dock, prep your flags on the dock or in a grassy area, but if you have to do it on the deck of your boat, watch out so that they don’t blow overboard.

Most of the time I have used them, they attach one to the other with a loop and wooden slug. You slide the loop of one over the slug of the next and continue with the same pattern until you have enough to reach from your bow to mast top to stem. Make sure the first one is right side up and all the others should be right.

Run the flags, up to your mast and then down to your stern. If your boat has a lot of freeboard and you have a lot of flags, you might even attach a sinker to the loose end of the bottom flag at your stern and bow. It's kind of a show off thing to do and people might look at you with a bit of envy or disgust depending on your zip code, but this way you can show how big your boat is and how much money you have.

Just make sure you cleat off the string of flags that is up the mast before you hang one to the waterline or the whole string will fly up in a breeze and wrap around your mast.

When To Dress Ship

Now when to dress ship? Basically whenever you want to wear a dress or tie, you should dress your ship too.

Ties are rarely welcome on a sailboat and dresses are only welcome if they are flowy and can blow up at the right moments - so instead of getting dressed up, why don’t you dress your ship instead?

I think any federal holiday is a good time and every high holiday as well. Stick em up at Thanksgiving and don’t take em down until New Years Day and you’ll cover all the cultural bases with minimal work.

Birthdays and Anniversaries are always a great time to do it and if you have the flags, spell out your hubby’s name or the name of the birthday celebrator in flags.

Just make sure you tell everyone that is what you did, because most people don’t know what they mean.

One of my favorite Jimmy Buffet lyrics is when he is talking about the birth of his father in Havana Harbor and all the ships celebrate his birth by dressing ship.

In his song “False Echoes” he writes,

“On the old Chicamauga the Signal Jacks flew And the message they spelled out caused a great ballyhoo Every ship in Havana then hoisted away All the pennants were 'a flyin' on my dad's first birthday”

Man I was born at the wrong time.

So that’s my take on signal flags and the sailor. If you got ‘em, fly ‘em and have fun with them. They do have meanings and if you decide to wander to St. Somewhere or aim to be the next Dennis Conner, you should probably know what they mean.

But for the rest of us here in mainland America, they are a breathtaking sight to behold when flown on someone’s birthday or to celebrate the birth of our Nation.

They are expensive and prone to mold and dry rot, so take care of them with regular washing and lots of fresh air.

Now that you know what they are and how to fly them, I hope to see lots of photos of boats dressed to the nines. Send them to us at LifeofSailing.com if you think of it, or share on Facebook and tag us in the photo so we can see how you dress your ship.

Thanks for reading and remember, do good, have fun and sail far.

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Capt Chris German is a life long sailor and licensed captain who has taught thousands to sail over the last 20 years. In 2007, he founded a US Sailing-based community sailing school in Bridgeport, CT for inner city youth and families. When Hurricane Sandy forced him to abandon those efforts, he moved to North Carolina where he set out to share this love for broadcasting and sailing with a growing web-based television audience through The Charted Life Television Network.

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Set Sail to Victory: Mastering Sailboat Racing Flags and Signals

Sailboat racing is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires skill, strategy, and knowledge of sailing rules and regulations. One of the essential components of sailboat racing is the use of flags and signals to communicate important information to the sailors.

Sailboat racing flags and signals are a standardized system used to convey messages about the course, starting times, penalties, and other critical information. In this article, we will explore the various sailboat racing flags and signals and their importance in the sport.

The Importance of Sailboat Racing Flags and Signals

Sailboat racing flags and signals are a set of visual cues used to communicate important information to sailors during a race. These signals can indicate the start and end of a race, changes in wind direction, or other important information that can affect a sailor’s strategy.

Understanding these signals is critical for any sailor who wants to compete in a sailboat race. Some common sailboat racing flags and signals include the “preparatory” flag, which indicates the start of the race is imminent, and the “postponement” flag, which indicates a delay in the start of the race.

Sailboat racing flags and signals are essential to the smooth and safe conduct of sailboat races. Without these flags and signals, sailors would be unable to navigate the race course safely or understand the starting times, course changes, or penalties.

Flags and signals provide a standardized system of communication that ensures that all sailors have the same information at the same time. This, in turn, promotes fair competition and ensures that all sailors have an equal opportunity to win.

The Basic Sailboat Racing Flags and Signals

The World Sailing ( WS ) is the world governing body for the sport of sailing (until 14 November 2015 named as International Sailing Federation or ISAF) has established a standardized system of sailboat racing flags and signals that are used worldwide. These flags and signals communicate essential information about the race, such as the starting times , course changes , penalties , and finish line . Below are the most common sailboat racing flags and signals:

The Preparatory Signal

The preparatory signal is the first signal made before the start of a sailboat race. This signal indicates that the race is about to start and that the boats should be prepared to start racing. The preparatory signal is usually made 5 to 10 minutes before the start of the race, depending on the size and type of race.

During the preparatory signal, the race committee displays the preparatory flag, which is a solid white flag with a blue horizontal stripe. The preparatory flag is displayed until the starting signal is made. Boats that cross the starting line before the starting signal is made are considered to have started early and may be penalized.

The Starting Signal

The starting signal is the second signal made in a sailboat race. This signal indicates that the race has officially started, and the boats can begin racing. The starting signal is usually made immediately after the preparatory signal, although there may be a delay if conditions are not suitable for racing.

The starting signal is made using the starting gun or horn. Boats must cross the starting line after the starting signal is made, or they will be considered to have started late and may lose valuable time.

The General Recall Signal

The general recall signal is made when the race committee determines that the starting sequence has not been fair or equal for all boats. This signal indicates that the race will be restarted.

During the general recall signal, the race committee displays the first substitute flag, which is a blue and white flag with a blue square in the center. Boats must return to the starting line and prepare to start again.

The Individual Recall Signal

The individual recall signal is made when a specific boat is identified as starting early. This signal indicates that the identified boat must return to the starting line and start again.

During the individual recall signal, the race committee displays the X flag, which is a black flag with a white square in the center. The identified boat must return to the starting line and start again after all other boats have started.

The Postponement Signal

The postponement signal is made when conditions are not suitable for racing. This signal indicates that the start of the race will be delayed until conditions improve.

During the postponement signal, the race committee displays the AP flag, which is a solid blue flag. Boats must return to the starting area and wait for further instructions.

The Abandonment Signal

The abandonment signal is made when conditions become too dangerous for racing. This signal indicates that the race will be abandoned, and all boats must return to shore.

During the abandonment signal, the race committee displays the N flag, which is a solid black flag. Boats must stop racing and return to shore immediately.

The Shortened Course Signal

The shortened course signal is made when conditions are not suitable for completing the full race course. This signal indicates that the race course will be shortened to ensure the safety of the boats and sailors.

During the shortened course signal, the race committee displays the S flag, which is a solid white flag with a blue square in the center. Boats must complete the shortened course and cross the finish line.

The Finish Signal

The finish signal is the final signal made in a sailboat race. This signal indicates that the race is over, and the boats have completed the race course. The finish signal is usually made when the boats cross the finish line.

During the finish signal, the race committee displays the finishing flag, which is a solid white flag with a blue vertical stripe. Boats must cross the finish line and complete the race. The boats are then ranked based on the order in

Additional Sailboat Racing Flags and Signals

In addition to the basic sailboat racing flags and signals, there are other flags and signals used in sailboat racing. These flags and signals communicate additional information about the race, such as penalties and rule enforcement. Below are some additional sailboat racing flags and signals:

The Penalty System

In sailboat racing, the penalty system is an important mechanism to ensure fair play and discourage cheating. The penalty system involves the use of penalty turns, which is a requirement for a boat to make a 360-degree turn as a result of committing a rule violation. The penalty turns must be completed as soon as possible, and failure to do so will result in further penalties.

The penalty system is signaled by the display of the “yellow flag” by the race committee boat. This flag is accompanied by a horn blast, which signifies that a penalty has been given to a boat. If a boat receives a penalty, it must complete the penalty turns as soon as possible.

The Black Flag Rule

The black flag rule is a sailing rule that is used to discourage boats from starting too early. Under this rule, if a boat is over the starting line when the starting signal is given, it is disqualified from the race.

The black flag is signaled by displaying a black flag with a white square in the middle. This flag is displayed with the one-minute signal before the start of the race. If a boat is over the starting line when the race starts, and the black flag is displayed, the boat is disqualified.

The Blue Flag Rule

The blue flag rule is used to indicate that a boat is in danger and requires assistance. The blue flag is displayed by a boat that requires assistance, and this signal must be acknowledged by other boats in the race.

The blue flag is displayed by a boat in distress or requiring assistance, and other boats must immediately make way for the distressed boat. If a boat fails to acknowledge the blue flag signal, it may be subject to penalties.

The Red Flag Rule

The red flag rule is used to s ignal that a race has been stopped due to an emergency situation . The red flag is displayed by the race committee boat, and all boats must immediately stop racing.

If the red flag is displayed, all boats must immediately stop racing and proceed to the designated area. The race will be restarted once the emergency situation has been resolved.

Sailboat racing flags and signals are a crucial part of the sport of sailboat racing. They provide a standardized system of communication that ensures fair competition and safe racing. Understanding these flags and signals is essential for all sailors who want to compete in sailboat racing.

What happens if a boat does not follow the sailboat racing flags and signals?

If a boat does not follow the sailboat racing flags and signals, it may be penalized or disqualified from the race.

Are sailboat racing flags and signals the same worldwide?

Yes, sailboat racing flags and signals are standardized worldwide by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF).

What is the penalty for starting early in sailboat racing?

The penalty for starting early in sailboat racing is usually a 360-degree turn penalty.

How are safety rules enforced in sailboat racing?

Safety rules are enforced in sailboat racing using the red flag rule. If a boat is identified as posing a safety risk, it will be disqualified from the race.

Can sailboat racing flags and signals change during a race?

Yes, sailboat racing flags and signals can change during a race due to weather conditions or other safety concerns.

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I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. Currently employed as Marine Surveyor carrying cargo, draft, bunker, and warranty survey.

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• Running racing
• course diagrams

Course diagrams

Clear communication is important to give sailors the best experience and many will rely on simple, easy to understand course diagrams.

World Sailing uses a system of assigning symbols to courses (course signals) which consist of letters and numbers. The number always relates to the number of beats that a competitor is to sail to complete that course.

Course designations

• L - windward/leeward course with a leeward finish
• I - an inner loop trapezoid
• O - an outer loop trapezoid
• M - a windward / leeward with a leeward finish with starboard mark roundings (commonly used for match racing)
• A - course with an offset mark at the windward end
• R - course with a reaching finish at the leeward end
• X - course with non-standard finish

So an LRA2 course would be a windward / leeward course with an offset mark at the windward end and a reaching finish with two windward legs

Select the relevant course name to show and download it's diagram.

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Table of Contents

• because of foul weather,
• because of insufficient wind making it unlikely that any boat will Definition: Finish " data-url="/definitions/76?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:void(0)">finish within the race time limit,
• because a Definition: Mark " data-url="/definitions/70?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:void(0)">mark is missing or out of position, or
• for any other reason directly affecting the safety or fairness of the competition,
• a line the course requires boats to cross; or
• at a gate, between the gate Definition: Mark " data-url="/definitions/70?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:void(0)">marks .

• the new compass bearing or
• a green triangle for a change to starboard or a red rectangle for a change to port.
• Subsequent legs may be changed without further signalling to maintain the course shape.
• replace it in its correct position or substitute a new one of similar appearance, or

• prohibit a boat from competing unless she has broken rule Rule: 30.4 " data-url="/rules/1569?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:;">30.4 ; or
• cause a boat to be penalized except under rule Rule: 2 " data-url="/rules/1150?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:;">2 , Rule: 30.2 " data-url="/rules/1544?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:;">30.2 , Rule: 30.4 " data-url="/rules/1569?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:;">30.4 or Rule: 69 " data-url="/rules/1626?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:;">69 or under rule Rule: 14 " data-url="/rules/1320?xformat=fleet" href="javascript:;">14 when she has caused injury or serious damage.

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Nautical flags: Meanings and Alphabet

Nautical flags serve the purpose of communication in situations concerning navigation safety and individuals. They form an international code system enabling boats to signal to shore or for two boats to communicate with each other.

Individual flags have specific and standard meanings. These ones can be used in combination with another flag or alone. Using different nautical colored flags have a different meaning.

What are Nautical Flags?

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 not possible.

The use of nautical flags dates back centuries and continues to be an essential aspect of seafaring traditions.

Nautical flags  are compose of 26 square flags that represent the letters of the alphabet. There are also 10 numbered pendants, one answering pendant and three substitutes.

You will see nautical flags in a few colors because only a few flag colors are easily recognized:

Nautical Flags and Their Meanings

Importance of nautical flag meanings.

Understanding the meanings behind nautical flags is crucial for anyone involved in maritime activities.

Whether you’re a sailor, a boater, or simply fascinated by the sea, having knowledge of nautical flag communication enables you to interpret messages, navigate safely, and respond appropriately in different situations.

International Code of Signals

The International Code of Signals, also known as ICS, is a special set of rules that tells people who use nautical flags how to use them correctly. It helps sailors understand each other and communicate important messages by using these special flags in a specific way.

It was first established in the 19th century to facilitate communication and prevent misunderstandings among ships of different nationalities. 

Over time, the code evolved and expanded to cover a wide range of messages and situations encountered at sea.

Within the International Code of Signals, each nautical flag represents a specific letter or number, as well as a set of predefined messages. These flags are combined to form words, phrases, and sentences, allowing vessels to spell out messages and communicate essential information.

The nautical flags in the International Code of Signals can be categorized into several groups, including alphabetic flags, numeric pennants, substitutes, repeaters, and special flags. Each category serves a specific purpose and carries distinct meanings when used in communication.

Individual Flag Meanings

Numeric pennants and their meanings.

Numeric pennants are a series of flags, each representing a number from zero to nine. These flags are used to communicate numerical information, such as coordinates, distances, or time. By combining different numeric pennants, vessels can convey precise numerical values, ensuring accurate communication between ships.

Letter flags and their meanings

Individual letters of the alphabet are represented by letter flags in the International Code of Signals. They are used to spell words and form sentences. Understanding the meanings assigned to each letter flag is critical for interpreting nautical flag messages and effectively communicating information.

Substitutes and repeaters in nautical flag communication

Substitute flags and repeater flags play important roles in nautical flag communication. Substitute flags are used to replace specific letter flags when they are not available or cannot be easily identified.

Repeater flags, on the other hand, are used to indicate that the preceding flag should be repeated. These flags ensure clarity and facilitate accurate transmission of messages.

Special flags and their purposes

The International Code of Signals includes several special flags that represent specific messages or commands. These flags convey information related to safety, medical assistance, maneuvering instructions, and more.

Understanding the meanings behind these special flags is crucial for maintaining safety and effective communication on the water.

Nautical Flags Meanings

It’s important to understand nautical flags and their meaning because they are valuable at sea in case of breakdowns in other communications systems (eg. radio) or in case of danger.

• One-flag signals are urgent or common signals.
• Two-flag signals are used for distress and maneuvering.
• Three-flag signals are for points of the compass, relative bearings, standard times, verbs, punctuation and also general code and decode signals.
• Four-flags are used mostly for geographical signals, names of ships, bearings, etc.
• Five-flag signals are used to relate time and position.
• Six-flag signals are used to indicate the main cardinal directions (N, S, E or W) in latitude and longitude signals.
• Seven-flags are used as signals for indicating longitude signals containing more than one hundred degrees.

Nautical flags are also used in nautical racing which signal to the competitors what they are supposed to do.

The Nautical Flag Alphabet

It is critical to understand that each flag representing a letter has a specific meaning.

International meanings for nautical flags:

• A: Alpha – diver down; I am undergoing a speed trial
• B: Bravo – carrying dangerous cargo
• C: Charlie – yes (affirmative)
• D: Delta – keep clear of me, I am manoevering with difficulty
• E: Echo – altering course to starboard
• F: Foxtrot – I am disabled, communicate with me
• G: Golf – I want a pilot
• H: Hotel – a pilot on board
• I: India – I am altering my course to port
• J: Juliet – vessel on fire keep clear
• K: Kilo – I want to communicate with you
• L: Lima – stop your vessel instantly, I have something important to communicate; Come Within Hail or Follow Me (Sailing Regatta)
• M: Mike – my vessel is stopped and making no way through the water; Mark Missing (Sailing Regatta)
• N: November – no (negative); Abandonment and Re-sail (Sailing Regatta)
• O: Oscar – Man overboard
• P: Papa – In port: All personnel return to ship; vessel is about to sail; At sea, fishing vessels might use this specific flag to convey the message “My nets have become entangled with an obstacle.”
• Q: Quebec – I request free pratique
• R: Romeo – reverse course
• S: Sierra – engines are going astern
• T: Tango – Keep clear; engaged in trawling. (International); Do not pass ahead of me. (Navy)
• U: Uniform – you are heading into danger
• V: Victor – require assistance
• W: Whiskey – require medical assistance
• X: X-ray – stop your intention
• Y: Yankee – am dragging anchor
• Z: Zulu – I require a tug

Solo or combined nautical flags have different meanings

Depending on the type of message, boats fly between 1 and 7 nautical flags. The combination of the O (Oscar) and W (Whiskey) flags, meanwhile, means “Man overboard. I require medical assistance”.

Signals with two nautical flags usually mean a certain problem of danger or maneuver. Three or more flags may include pendants and may indicate things such as compass points, time and position, geographic signals, geographic coordinates, and boat names.

Nautical Flags, sometimes the secret language of ships

While sailors around the world use nautical flags to communicate different scenarios, certain situations use secret language.

For example, the US Navy groups signals together in ways known only to its staff to communicate with its fellow ships.

NATO uses also the same nautical flags, with a few additional ones to warships, alone or in short sets to communicate various unclassified messages.

In yacht racing, the nautical flags have other meanings. These ones are solo or combined.

The P flag, for example, is employed as the “preparatory” flag to indicate an impending start, while the S flag indicates that a course has been shortened.

Nautical Flags to Buy

Interested in buying nautical flags to decorate your yacht? Whether you want to add a nautical flag pole, or you’re looking to replace an old nautical flag, we hope you find what you’re looking for!

Set of 50 Nautical Flags

We recommend this set of 50 (100% cotton) nautical flags. All flags are hand-made, so they can be quite smaller or bigger. Each flag is about 8 inches tall and 13 inches wide. All are printed on both sides. They give you a guarantee on color for life.

Maritime Signal Flags - 40 Different Decorative Flags - Over 40 Feet Long - Easy to Display

The flags are constructed of weather-resistant nylon cloth with double stitched seams. They are connected on a nylon chain with knots at both ends for convenient hanging.

These rectangular flags are 6″ x 9″, while pennant flags measure 6″ x 14″ or 6″ x 9″. The nylon cable is more than 40 feet long, with 7″ between flags and 36″ ties on either end.

FLAGLINK International Marine Navy Signal Code Flag Set - String of 40 Flag - 40 Feet Long – Nautical Maritime Boat Ship Vessel Nautical Theme Decoration for Patry

Do you plan on throwing a big party on the boat and want to deck out the entire vessel in honor of the occasion? These nautical flags, which are less expensive than the previous ones, are an excellent choice for interior or outdoor decorations.

You may hang your ornamental flags in your front yard, garden, or patio, so that your family and friends can view the gorgeous holiday flag design from every aspect and vantage point. Because they are constructed of a water-resistant polyester fabric, they may be left outside for an extended period of time.

What nautical flags mean?

The purpose of nautical flags is to give ways and means of communication in circumstances involving the safety of navigation and people. Nautical flags are an international coding system used for a boat to indicate to land or for two vessels to signal to each other in situations involving the safety of navigation and people.

How many nautical flags are there?

There are 26 square nautical flags. Each of them symbolizes an international code term associated with the letters of the alphabet, such as Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, and so on.

What are nautical flags called?

Nautical flags are also known as international maritime signal flags, signal flags or boat flags.

How do you spell out messages using nautical flags?

Messages are spelled out using nautical flags by hoisting the flags in the correct sequence according to the International Code of Signals. Each flag represents a letter, and the combination of flags creates words, phrases, and sentences.

Are there any alternative systems to nautical flag communication?

While nautical flags are widely used for communication at sea, alternative systems such as radio communication, semaphore flags, and modern technologies like VHF radios and satellite communications also play a role in maritime communication.

Where can I learn more about nautical flag meanings?

To learn more about nautical flag meanings and communication, you can refer to resources such as official publications on the International Code of Signals, maritime museums, boating and sailing organizations, and online references that provide detailed information on nautical flags and their meanings.

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Nautical flags and meanings

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Welcome to the intriguing world of nautical flags! Seafarers have used nautical flags for generations to communicate. Each flag symbolizes a letter or message with its own design and color scheme. These flags carry vital information including distress signals, identity, and directions in marine communication. Nautical flags are fun to learn about whether you’re a sailor or a landlubber. To help you decipher the sea’s hidden language, we’ll introduce you to some of the most essential and often-used nautical flags.

A: Alpha – Diver down (Small diving vessel); keep clear

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B: Bravo – Carrying dangerous cargo

C: Charlie – Yes (affirmative)

D: Delta – Keep clear of me, I am maneuvering with difficulty

E: Echo – Altering course to starboard

F: Foxtrot – I am disabled, communicate with me

G: Golf – I want a pilot

H: Hotel – A pilot on board

I: India – I am altering my course to port

J: Juliet – A vessel on fire, keep clear

K: Kilo – I want to communicate with you

L: Lima – Sop your vessel instantly, I have something important to communicate; Come Within Hail or Follow Me (Sailing Regatta)

M: Mike – My vessel is stopped

N: November – No (negative)

O: Oscar – Man overboard

P: Papa – In port: All personnel return to the ship; the vessel is about to sail; At sea: It may be used by fishing vessels to mean: “My nets have come fast upon an obstruction”

Q: Quebec – I request free pratique

R: Romeo – Reverse Course

S: Sierra – Engines are going astern

T: Tango – Keep clear; engaged in trawling (International); Do not pass ahead of me (Navy)

U: Uniform – You are heading into danger

V: Victor – Require assistance

W: Whiskey – Require medical assistance

X: X-ray – Stop your intention

Y: Yankee – Am dragging anchor

Z: Zulu – I require a tug

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Yacht flags play an essential role in sailing, navigation, and communication among sailors. These flags are a part of the nautical flags category and are also known as nautical signal flags or sailing flags. Each flag has a specific meaning, and it is important for sailors to know them to communicate effectively and safely.

Nautical flags have been used for centuries to communicate messages between ships, and today they are still an important part of maritime tradition. Yacht flags are used for a variety of purposes, from signaling the vessel’s nationality to indicating its sailing status.

The International Code of Signals governs the use of nautical flags and sets out specific rules for their use. The code includes 26 alphabetical flags, 10 numerical pennants, and 3 substitute flags that are used to represent letters that are not included in the alphabet.

Yacht flags , in particular, are used to signal the boat’s identity, status, or intention. For example, a yellow and blue flag with a white anchor in the center is a signal for a vessel that is at anchor. A white flag with a blue square and a white cross in the center signals that the boat is a medical vessel or has a medical emergency on board.

Other popular yacht flags include the burgee, which is a triangular flag that represents the boat’s club or organization, and the courtesy flag, which is flown to show respect for the host country’s flag when sailing in foreign waters. The courtesy flag is often flown on the starboard spreader of the boat.

Navigation flags are another type of yacht flag used for signaling a boat’s movements or intentions. These flags are often used in racing or in other situations where it is important to communicate quickly and clearly. For example, a blue flag with a white diagonal stripe indicates that the boat is tacking, while a yellow and black flag signals that the boat is approaching a mark.

In addition to their practical uses, yacht flags are also an important part of maritime tradition and are often used for decorative purposes. Many sailors display their yacht flags on board their boats as a way of showing off their sailing accomplishments or their affiliation with a particular club or organization.

In conclusion, yacht flags are an important part of sailing and navigation, serving practical and decorative purposes. Knowing the meaning of each flag is crucial for effective communication and safety while on the water. So, next time you see a yacht flag waving in the wind, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and tradition behind it.

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Yacht Racing Flags

CHARLIE (C)

FOXTROT (F)

NOVEMBER (N)

OCTOBER (O)

UNIFORM (U)

WHISKEY (W)

Answering Pennant and Signals

ANSWERING PENNANT

TO STARBOARD

BLACK/WHITE

GREEN/WHITE

Racing Signals

Races not started are postponed. The warning signal will be made 1 minute after removal unless at that time the race is posponed again or abandoned.

Postponement of 1 hour from the scheduled starting time.

Postponement of 2 hours from the scheduled starting time.

Postponement of 3 hours from the scheduled starting time.

Races not started are postponed. No more racing today.

Races not started are postponed. Further signals ashore.

All races that have started are abandoned . Return to the starting area. The warning signal will be made 1 minute after removal unless at that time the race is abandonded again or postponed .

All races that have started are abandoned . No more racing today.

Preparatory signal.

Rule 30.1 is in effect. If any part of a boat's hull is on the course side of the starting line or one of its extensions during the last minute before her starting signal, she shall sail across an extension so that her hull is completely on the pre-start side before she starts.

Rule 30.2 is in effect. No part of a boat's hull shall be in the triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this rule and is identified, she shall receive, without a hearing, a 20% Scoring Penalty calculated as stated in rule 44.3(c). She shall be penalized even if the race is restarted or re-sailed, but not if it is postponed or abandoned before the starting signal. If she is similarly identified during a subsequent attempt to start the same race, she shall receive an additional 20% Scoring Penalty.

No part of a boat's hull shall be in the triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this rule and is identified, she shall be disqualified without a hearing, but not if the race is restarted or resailed.

If a black flag has been displayed, no part of a boat's hull shall be in the triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this rule and is identified, she shall be disqualified without a hearing, even if the race is restarted or resailed, but not if it is postponed or abandoned before the starting signal. If a general recall is signaled or the race is abandoned after the starting signal, the race committee shall display her sail number before the next warning signal for that race, and if the race is restarted or resailed she shall not sail in it. If she does so, her disqualification shall not be excluded in calculating her series score.

The position of the next mark has been changed

To Starboard

To Decrease

To Increase

Ashore: A notice to competitors has been posted. Afloat: Come within hail or follow this vessel.

The object displaying this signal replaces a missing mark.

Wear a personal floatation device.

No sound has been detected. If a boat is identified, she shall be disqualified without a hearing

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Racing Flag Signals

Sail races are governed with flags and sound signals to indicate flag changes. The flags used are taken from the International maritime signal flag set. During a race and for any signal concerning the race, these flags are defined in the ISAF Racing Rules of Sailing but the signal can be modified by the Sailing Instructions.

The raising (hoisting) or removing of a visual signal is accompanied by the emission of a sound signal to draw attention to the new signal. The type of the sound signal (one short sound, two short sounds, one long sound, etc.) is described by the rule according to the type of signal.

Click here for a link to "Racing Rules Of Sailing" and usual meanings of racing flags.

Race Committee Flag - 20x30 Inches

Race Committee Flag - 24x36 Inches

Race Committee Flag - 12x18 Inches

On Station Flag

Race Committee Flag

Black & White 2x3 Foot Checkered Flag

Black & White Lighweight Checkered Flag

Yacht Boat Racing Flag - Blue

Yacht Boat Racing Flag - Black

This is a commercial grade nautical product designed for outdoor use. It is made using our 200 Denier Outdoor Nylon fabric and includes sewn letters and anchor logo. Your flag is finished with a heavy white canvas heading and strong brass grommets.

(Optional - Depends on starting method) - Denotes that orange smoke has been lit and there are 3 minutes or less until the start of the race.

This is a commercial grade nautical product designed for outdoor use. It is made using our 200 Denier Outdoor Nylon fabric and includes sewn letters and anchor logo. Your flag is finished with a heavy white canvas heading and strong brass grommets. ...

Our Checkered, Black & Whit enylon flag. Perfect for racing events, auto shows, estate sales and auctions. Printed on Commercial Grade Nylon material, is strong and sturdy, with a high-gloss look. Includes canvas heading and grommets.  

Our Checkered, Black & White poly/cotton flag. Perfect for racing events, auto shows, estate sales and auctions. Printed on poly/cotton material, is strong and sturdy, with a high-gloss look. Includes canvas heading and grommets. In Power Boat...

When displayed the race committee boat is in position at the finishing line.

The Black Flag Rule 30.3 will be in effect. A boat within the triangle formed by the ends of the line and the first mark during the minute before the start will be disqualified without a hearing.

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XL Flag Elektrostal Moscow oblast | landscape flag | 2.16m² | 23sqft | 120x180cm | 4x6ft - 100% Made in Germany - long lasting outdoor flag

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

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Product information, warranty & support, product description.

Flag: Elektrostal Moscow oblast landscape flag | 2.16m² | 23sqft | 120x180cm | 4x6ft Elektrostal Moscow oblast Elektrostal obwód moskiewski , flaga ???????????? ?????????? ??????? Since we know how important your external presentation is, we print our Elektrostal Moscow oblast flag for your representative appearance using the most modern machines in Germany. To ensure your maximum flexibility, we have equipped the flags with quality metal eyelets, to let you simply attach these flags to any flagpole. To let you use the flags for a long time, we have strengthened the flag using double safety seams and a tear proof strap at the side of the pole. Due to the quality of this business flag, you show a particular degree of the closeness to Elektrostal Moscow oblast. Details about this flag This landscape Elektrostal Moscow oblast flag is a quality product Made in Germany made of 110g/m² gloss polyester. This Elektrostal Moscow oblast flag is wind- and weather-resistant and highly durable. The flag colors are intensive and UV-resistant. This flag is specially made for outer space. This Elektrostal Moscow oblast flag will be delivered with a double safety-seam as well as with 2 metal eyelets to hoist at the flag pole. The metal eyelets give you great flexibility for placing this flag on any flagstaff. The mast side is reinforced with a white hem. The quality flag material and the metal eyelets will take care of a long endurance of this Elektrostal Moscow oblast flag. If required, the flag can be washed at 60 degrees Celsius. Recommended height of flag pole Elektrostal Moscow oblast flags of 2.16m² | 23sqft | 120x180cm | 4x6ft look best with flagpoles of around 6m | 18ft height. Need a bigger size or an other configuration? We can provide bigger sizes, other configurations, exclusive indoor ...

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