FLAGGING: WHY IT IS IMPORTANT AND WHAT MISTAKES SHOULD BE AVOIDED AT ALL COSTS
Flag flying is essential when sailing on the high seas. Mistakes in flag flying can have serious consequences, ranging from fines to life-threatening situations on the high seas. In this article you will learn all about the importance of flagging, get to know the most common mistakes and how to avoid them in the best possible way.
Unsere Topseller
What are signal flags in navigation?
Signalflaggen in der Seefahrt?Signal flags are special flags used in seafaring to convey messages. Each flag represents a letter or meaning. By combining different flags, a message or signal can be created. Signal flags are often used to warn nearby vessels or to express the intention of one's own vessel.
Federal flags / host country flags
What is a flag parade?
The flag parade ritual is a tradition at sea where the flags of different countries are raised to symbolise good fellowship and respect for other nations.
The flag parade usually involves hoisting the national flag of one's own country as well as the host country's flag at the stern of the boat. The flag parade therefore has a serious background and serves as a symbol of international solidarity and peaceful coexistence at sea. However, it is considered impolite to "collect" host country flags during the voyage. Only on the day of return home is it customary to place all the flags of the countries visited in alphabetical order under the starboard saling. They then remain there until sunset.
Flag flying on recreational boats at a glance
- The flying of flags on board recreational craft is important for navigation and communication at sea
- There are different types of flags (e.g. national flags, host country flags and club flags)
- National flags should be set on days when you are travelling in a particular country
- The host country flag should always be flown on the starboard side to show respect
- Club flags are normally hoisted on the port side of the boat
- If possible, only one host country flag and one club flag should be flown on the boat to avoid confusion with other signals
- Flags should always be hoisted correctly and respectfully to avoid potential problems with other boats or authorities
What are the possible consequences of flying the wrong flag?
Flag flying is regulated by the Law on the Flagging of Seagoing Vessels and the Flagging of Inland Vessels (Flagging Law Act).
In Germany, flying a false flag can result in a fine.The amount of the fine depends on the type of offence and the respective regulations. For example, flying a false national flag can result in a fine. Flying a host country flag outside the official recommendations can also be punished.
Flagpoles
What are the typical mistakes when flying flags on a boat?
- Wrong order of the flags
- Wrong placement of the flags (e.g. clubstander on the wrong side)
- Flags in poor condition or loose flag lines
- Use of wrong flags (e.g. European flag as a substitute for national flag)
- Missing flags for compulsory flags (e.g. federal flag on German ships)
Which flag should one fly when entering the territorial waters of another country?
Anyone entering the territorial waters of another country should display the national flag of the country whose territorial waters they are entering. In addition, it may also be necessary to fly the host country flag. When doing so, it is important to research the host country's flag regulations and abide by them to avoid misunderstandings or fines.
Flag alphabet
Taking down the flags: Here's what you should look out for
The national flag must be clearly visible at all times, as required by law. This is attached to an inclined pole at the stern or flown at sea in the leech of the mainsail or in the top of the aft mast. The flag parade is an international seaman's custom and is not codified in law.
Nowadays, flags are hoisted at 8 am from 1 May to 3 September and at 9 am in the remaining months. In the evening at sunset, no later than 9 pm, flags are taken down. Hoisting is often considered an act of courtesy abroad and should therefore be respected.
How do you find out which flag to fly?
- Research in advance which flags must be displayed in the territorial waters of the country concerned (e.g. official website of the country's government)
- Guide for sailors (online or in book form)
- Sea maps
- Local port authorities
Are there differences in flagging between different countries or regions?
Yes, there are differences in flagging between different countries and regions. Each country has its own regulations and traditions regarding flag flying. In some countries, there are also regional differences depending on which body of water or coastline you are in. Therefore, one should inform oneself accordingly about the respective flag guidance before travelling.
How high should the national flag hang?
The national flag should be clearly visible and set on a staff at the stern, inclined at about 40 degrees, amidships or slightly offset to starboard. Other flags should not cover the national flag.
