yacht anchor flag

About the U.S. Yacht Ensign

While the International maritime law primarily applies to vessels owned by the U.S. government and military, small, non-registered craft owned by U.S. citizens may also hoist a U.S. ensign to show their national character. The United States ensign is the American Flag, however, many privately-owned recreational craft use the U.S. Yacht Ensign in place of the national flag.

U.S. Yacht Ensign Design

The U.S. Yacht Ensign is a modified version of the American flag. It has the same 13 red and white stripes, as well as navy blue canton in the upper left corner. However, inside the canton, the 50 white stars are replaced with a fouled anchor in a circle of thirteen stars. Most yacht ensigns are manufactured in 2:3 or 3:5 proportions, but the traditional dimensions are the same as the national ensign, 10:19.

History of the U.S. Yacht Ensign

The U.S. Yacht Ensign was created by an Act of Congress in August 1848. However, the legislation did not authorize the U.S. Yacht Ensign to replace the national flag as a means of identifying the vessel’s nationality. In fact, the secretary of the New York Yacht Club specifically described the flag as a “distinguishing flag to be worn at the masthead,” and not as an ensign that would have been flown at the stern or gaff.

The intention of the law, and the purpose of the U.S. Yacht Ensign, was to indicate that a yacht was licensed by the Treasury Department, allowing private boats meant for pleasure, cruising and racing to move between ports without the need to clear customs. Yachts eligible for the license were initially 20 net tons and over, later reduced to 15 net tons, because smaller craft were not subject to the same customs rules.

The Navy fervently argued that the U.S. Yacht Ensign was meant to be used in addition to the national ensign, not in place of it. Yet, most yachtsman continued to use it in lieu of the national flag, and boats of all sizes, regardless of whether or not they held the Treasury Department license, began flying the U.S. Yacht Ensign from their sterns.

U.S. Yacht Ensign Accepted as National Ensign

The Navy eventually recognized the U.S. Yacht Ensign as a substitute for the national ensign in 1939, and the argument over which boats were eligible to fly the flag became a moot point in 1980 when the Vessel Documentation Act removed the special yacht license, along with the requirement to display the yacht flag.

Today, the United States Power Squadrons’ guide to flag etiquette provides that the U.S. Yacht Ensign may be flown as an alternative to the national ensign by U.S. recreational boats of all types and sizes. However, the standard national ensign should still be used when in international or foreign waters.

Honoring Tradition with the U.S. Yacht Ensign

Continuing a tradition that dates back to the mid-nineteenth century, the yacht ensign is now flown as a matter of custom by many recreational boats and yachts, including American journalist, author, television writer and yachtsman, Christian Williams.

Williams recently featured our U.S. Yacht Ensign in his YouTube Video, “Why We Sail — Refit and Hey, Why no Dodger?” The flag in the below video clip logged 15,000 nautical miles, and, as Williams notes, “It’s in better condition than he was.”

Lisa Frawley

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How could Williams sail 15000 miles with a yacht ensign in contravention of the rule that restricts the yacht ensign validity to US waters only?

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Your 2024 Guide to Nautical Flag Etiquette

Ever wonder why there are so many boat flags ? How do the sailors know which flag to put first and when? Nautical flag etiquette is an essential part of sailing. The seven most common types of boat flags are Skin Diver flags , Storm Warning flags , Coast Guard boat flags , US Jack flags , Maritime flags and Pennants, Yacht Ensign & Officer flags , and most importantly the International Code Signal flags .

Code signal flags and are frequently used by boats to send messages to other boats. They are made with a sequence of twenty-six square flags that represent a letter of the nautical alphabet. Ten numbered flags, one answering pendant, and three repeaters also form part of the nautical flag sequence.

As with most yesteryear traditions, the popularity of boat flags as a common communication tool is slowly reducing with the introduction of technology. This does not mean that we should discard this sacred tradition.

The world of nautical flags is broad, and we cannot possibly cover them all in this article. Navies, yachts and fishing boats have variations in the meaning of some flags.

While the need for nautical flags might be dwindling in the boating world, they are still pleasing to the eye. Learning when to use nautical flags and how to use them is a skill every sailor and thalassophile should have. Not only is it essential for safety reasons, but boat flags can also a lot of fun. Take a gander at our fun maritime flags and pennants !

Word of the Day: A thalassophile is someone that loves the sea!

This article will teach you the hows and whens of nautical flag etiquette. We will also provide you with a glossary of terms because, let's face it, some boating terms are pretty confusing even for a seasoned sailor.

So put your best sailor's cap on and join us on this great sea signal voyage.

What is Nautical Flag Etiquette?

Glossary of flag terms, flag courtesies.

As silly as it might seem, boat flag etiquette is crucial. In a worst-case scenario, it could mean the difference between life and death. Generally speaking, the nautical flag etiquette is a combination of years of maritime tradition and laws that help boats communicate messages to each other.

Different countries have varying legal requirements that should be observed for boats that enter and leave their waters or ports. So it is helpful to be mindful of sailing the vessel’s legal obligation for various countries. No one likes to pay a fine for something as simple as forgetting or putting up the wrong flag signal.

As we have stated before, the world of boating is vast and sometimes confusing. The terminology used is pretty unique. The key to understanding nautical etiquette is to know what everyone is talking about first.

Even professional sailors don't always get it right. So to help you brush up on your boating terms, we've put together this glossary with definitions. We hope this will help you to understand the nautical phrases that we will use in this article.

ABAFT - refers to the rear end or stern of a ship

AFT – means towards stern of the boat (the back of the boat)

ASTERN – it means to go towards the back of the boat

BOW - refers to the front of the ship

BUTT DIAMETER - is the width of the bottom of the flagpole.

CANTON - the rectangular part of a flag, usually at the top hoist corner of a flag, which occupies about a quarter of the total surface area of the flag

CLOSE UP - it means that the flags are now fully hoisted

COLORS - refers to the raising and taking down of the flags at 8:00 am and at sunset, respectively

COURTESY FLAG - is the national flag of the country that a boat is entering. Ex: Boats entering the United States would display an American flag as a courtesy flag.

DIP - means to lower a flag by turning it forward from an upright position to 45° or horizontal as a sign of deference or respect

ENSIGN - means a flag showing nationality of the boat, i.e. the country where the boat is registered. Ex:

• The Red Ensign can be flown by a merchant vessel
• The White Ensign can be flown by war or naval ships
• The Blue Ensign can be flown by public or government vessels
• The Civil Ensign is flown by civilian vessels
• The Yacht Ensign is flown by yachts and is typically the largest flag on board; the flag may be flown at stern staff
• The USPS ensign is flown by the United States Power Squadrons and is flown to signal that the boat is commanded by an active member of the USPS.

FLAG STAFF AT THE STERN - a pole at the stern/ back of the ship where the ship's country of registry flags is flown

FLY - refers to the length of the flag, measured from the heading to the fly end

GAFF - is a rig that extends from the flagpole that allows for more flags to be hoisted, which usually rises at an angle and represents the mast of a ship

HALYARD - rope or stainless steel cable used to hoist and lower flags

HOIST - the raising of flags

HOIST END - the edge of the flag that is closest to the flagpole

HOUSE FLAG - refers to the emblem that shows the company or commercial house that a merchant ship belongs to and also refers to a yacht owner's personal flag

INTERCO - stands for the International Code of Signals used in the maritime system

JACK - mean the additional national flags flown by warships (and certain other vessels) at the head of the shi

MASTHEAD - is the tallest part of a ship's mast or the lower section of a mast

NAUTICAL –refers to everything associated with maritime travel

NAUTICAL FLAGPOLE --refers to a flagpole with a yardarm and or gaff

PENNANT - is a triangular-shaped flag

PRATIQUE - refers to the license or permission to use a port from the host country

STARBOARD - is the right-hand side of the boat when you are facing the bow.

STARBOARD SPREADER - is the most forward part on the mast (if there is more than one) where the courtesy and q flags are flown

STEM – refers to the most forward part of the bow

STERN – refers to the back of the boat

STERN LINE – is the docking line that comes from the stern

TACK LINE - is the length of the halyard; it's used to separate the group of flags

UNDERWAY – means a vessel in motion

YARDARM - refers to the horizontally mounted and tapered pole attached to a flagpole to create a "t" or a cross

Now that we are familiar with some common terminology used in nautical language, let's move on to the order in which the flags must be arranged in terms of nautical flag etiquette rules.

This order is universal across the globe. We must follow the order to avoid confusing other ships. The flag with the highest honor should be flown at the highest point.

The order is as follows:

• Gaff (reserved for the national ensign/ country flag)
• Flagstaff at the stern
• Starboard yardarm (Halyard)
• Truck of mast (masthead)
• Port yardarm (Halyard)

First, we need to establish the system that governs these nautical flag rules. INTERCO is the International Code of Signals. The system is used worldwide to communicate nautical messages related to navigation, safety, and maritime.

Signal flags like the ones we are discussing in this article form part of INTERCO's signals. The other signals include radiotelegraphs or radiotelephones, ALDIS lamps, hand signals and some sound signals to name a few.

Knowing and understanding the basics of the INTERCO signaling system is extremely important for anyone interested in sailing. Whether privately or otherwise.

The National Ensign/Flag

Let's talk about nautical etiquette rules that apply for the most critical flag signal, the national ensign.

The U.S. national ensign is the preferred flag for all U.S. vessels. This ensign is also known as the “50-star of “Old Glory.” This is also the preferred ensign for yachts, especially when sailing in international or foreign waters.

Great honor is given to the national flag of the country in which the ship is registered. On the order of positioning for the flags, the national ensign is given that most senior position; the gaff. If your boat does not have a gaff, then you should fly the ensign from the flagstaff at your boat's stern.

The second rule is that you can fly no other flag above the national ensign on the same halyard. Additionally, the Jack and the National Ensign should not be hoisted together. The Jack is only hoisted when the ship is at anchor or made fast to the shore or to buoy, never when the ship is underway, when the last line is cast off, and when the anchor is aweigh. We do not recommend hoisting the Jack for recreational purposes.

The scenarios where a national ensign should be flown include:

• When dressing the ship
• When occupying foreign waters during the daylight hours
• When moving along a foreign port or a combat ship (man of war)

The Courtesy Flag

Flying the courtesy flag is a centuries-old tradition that is still relevant in these modern times. The act of flying a foreign nation's flag as your ship passes through or enters its waters is not only a sign of respect, it is an essential etiquette to observe. While there is no legal requirement to fly a courtesy flag, it is a polite custom to which you should adhere.

The only legal requirement for vessels in foreign water is to fly the red ensign flag.

Where does the courtesy flag fly? As per tradition, the courtesy flag is flown at the starboard spreader. If your boat has more than one mast, you must fly the courtesy flag from the forward most mast. The courtesy flag is tied and hoisted after the authorities have granted your vessel clearance to enter their space.

Key rules for courtesy flag etiquette include:

• Never fly the national ensign and the courtesy flag on the same mast because that will be interpreted as a sign of you are challenging the foreign nation's authority
• Never fly a courtesy flag that is in terrible condition; this is a sign of disrespect
• If you have guests on your boat that are of another nationality, then you should also fly their national flags as a courtesy, but never on the same mast
• When you return to your home country, always take down the foreign country's flag

Additional courtesy flag etiquette includes:

• If your boat is mastless, then the courtesy flag can replace any flag which is normally flown at the bow of the boat
• If your boat has a mast with a spreader, the courtesy flag is flown at the starboard spreader

However, you must keep in mind that these rules or traditions vary from one country to another, so always make sure that you look for the correct information.

Nautical Flag Etiquette Entering a Foreign Port

The Q flag is the first flag that you must raise when entering foreign waters or a foreign port. It signals to the port authorities that your ship is healthy and you require free practice.

We always fly the Q flag in international waters before customs clears you for entry. After clearing, you then replace the Q flag with the courtesy flag. You often fly the Q flag on the starboard yardarm.

Dressing the Ship

Certain occasions require that your vessel be decked up with all the flags that it can hold. We call this dressing the ship.

It is reserved for special occasions such as public holidays or when the ship is beginning its maiden or last voyage. Dressing the ship is only done when the ship is not underway.

The ship's full splendor will be on display, so this is the time to have fun. The dressing begins at 08.00 am at anchor unless it is the ship's maiden or last voyage, then the dressing can occur at sea.

The national ensign is first. All the other flags will follow, lining up from the waterline forward to the waterline after using the stem or bowsprit end and the masthead.

We have barely scratched the surface of all the rules and customs you need to follow to observe proper nautical flag etiquette. However, we hope that we have simplified some of the most important customs in maritime tradition. Hopefully, the next time you are on a boat, you will understand the meaning of the signals and flags better. Happy sailing!

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United States Yacht Ensign, Nylon All Sizes

$ 32.44 – $ 152.68

The U.S. Yacht Ensign, crafted by Annin Flagmakers, is a distinguished flag that proudly identifies your boat on the open waters. It is just one example of our extensive collection of nautical flags available at Flagpro online store.

Our Yacht Ensign is meticulously crafted using Solarguard nylon, ensuring exceptional resistance to harmful ultraviolet radiation. Sizes up through 24″x36″ feature fully embroidered stars and anchor, while the 30″x48″ and larger sizes showcase beautifully appliqued stars and anchor. Each flag is carefully constructed with individually sewn stripes and finished with a bleached duck header and brass grommets.

Designed to withstand the elements, the U.S. Yacht Ensign combines durability with timeless elegance. Whether you’re sailing along the coast or exploring distant shores, this flag will proudly display your boat’s identity and your love for the sea.

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Annin Flagmakers’ United States Yacht Ensign flag is renowned for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.. Moreover, Annin Flagmakers specifically designs this FMAA certified flag for yachts, providing a perfect blend of elegance and durability to showcase your nautical pride.

The US Yacht Ensign flag, crafted from high-quality nylon material, withstands the rigors of marine environments with ease.. Additionally, it is resistant to fading, ensuring that the vibrant colors of the flag remain bold and striking even under the harsh sun and saltwater exposure. Furthermore, the nylon fabric is lightweight, allowing it to catch the breeze and create a graceful display as it flutters atop your yacht’s mast.

Furthermore the design of the U.S. Yacht Ensign flag is classic and iconic. Featuring 13 alternating red and white stripes, symbolizing the original American colonies, and a field of deep blue adorned with 13 white stars and anchor, it represents the pride of the United States. The flag’s expert stitching and reinforced seams ensure longevity and resistance to fraying, even in marine conditions.

Additionally, Annin Flagmakers offers a range of sizes to accommodate different yacht types and flagpole sizes. We finish each flag with sturdy brass grommets, enabling easy and secure attachment to your yacht’s flagpole.. Whether you’re cruising the open seas or docked at a marina, the U.S. Yacht Ensign flag will proudly display your love for sailing and your allegiance to the United States.

As an FMAA certified flag, the U.S. Yacht Ensign flag meets the highest industry standards for quality and craftsmanship. With Annin Flagmakers’ commitment to excellence, trust in a flag that endures and maintains its beauty for years.

Enhance the visual appeal of your yacht and showcase your patriotic spirit with the Annin Flagmakers nylon Yacht Ensign flag. Ultimately, with its exceptional quality, durability, and timeless design, this flag is a symbol of maritime tradition and American pride.

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U.S. Yacht Ensign Flag

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• Made in USA
• The US Yacht Ensign is looks like the American flag, but includes a fouled anchor in a circle of stars in the canton, instead of the 50 stars of a typical American Flag. The ensign was created by Congress in August, 1848 as a flag to be used by licensed U.S. yachts. The flag is often used by licensed and unlicensed yachts.
• Constructed with a high tenacity, marine-grade nylon creating the highest quality, greatest fade resistant flag manufactured for outdoor flag use.
• This flag features our premium glossy stars and lock stitched sewn stripes.
• Finished with the highest quality, durable polyester canvas heading which is reinforced with precision stitching and spurred brass grommets.
• The fly end is finished with four rows of superior lock stitching for a highly durable reinforced outdoor weather product.

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12"x18" Yacht Flag - Made in USA

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• Heading  - blended Army duck cloth -> tough as nails
• Field  - heavy-duty nylon bunting dries fast and resists fading in UV rays
• Grommet  - solid brass #2 rolled rim grommet
• Thread - yep, we even care about the thread, that's why it's heirloom quality.

PERFORMANCE AND DURABILITY

Flyability - able to dance in the slightest breeze Toughness - built to withstand the gusts Appearance - rich vibrant colors that last

We value construction and these are made with American pride. Attention to detail results in a flag you can be proud of - we are!

• individually sewn stripes
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United States Yacht Ensign

Starting at: $ 28.00

The United States Yacht Ensign is a special Flag to be flown over American Yachts. It bears a strong resemblance to our national ensign, the only difference being the fouled anchor and 13 stars taking the place of the normal star field.

The design was not originally intended for use as an ensign, it was created and presented to congress by the New York Yachting Club as a signal that would exempt them from having to clear customs after each voyage. Despite its original purpose, the practice of flying this Flag in lieu of the National Ensign began shortly after its creation. It became widespread and was eventually recognized by even the US Navy. The practice of flying an ensign in territorial waters ceased to be a legal necessity in 1980, but the tradition has been carried on by Yacht enthusiasts nation wide.

Durable nylon fabric with embroidered stars and sewn stripes with four rows of fray-resistant lock stitching on the fly end.

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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

Check this video quiz ↗

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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Flag Protocol

• Nautical Traditions

Fly It Proudly

Yachts and yacht clubs are great users of flags. They are colorful, festive and informative. Every yacht owner should be familiar with the customs that apply to all the types of flags typically flown on a vessel.

Unlike buildings and houses ashore, a vessel has a limited number of places from which to fly flags, and thus the yachtsman must be selective in the flags that he or she flies afloat. A yacht will ordinarily display three flags: one announcing her nationality, one announcing her owner’s club affiliation, and one announcing her owner’s status (private signal or club officer’s flag).

National Ensign (50-Star US flag)

The familiar 50 star “stars and stripes” flag is also known as the national ensign afloat. It is the most important flag on board and identifies her national character. A vessel’s character is determined by her registration, which may differ from that of her owner. This is especially important abroad and on the high seas. 

A ship’s national ensign is immediately recognizable because it flies farthest aft (the place of honor), but not necessarily from the highest point in the rig. With the possible exception of battle flags, it should be the vessel’s largest flag.

Normally the national ensign is flown from a staff on the vessel’s stern. No other flag may be flown from this position. However, it is also permissible on a sailboat to fly it from the leech of the aft-most sail about two-thirds of the way up; or from the peak of the gaff on a gaff-rigged vessel. Sport fishing boats, which cannot fly the ensign from the stern when underway because of interference with fishing lines, fly the ensign from the aft end of the tuna tower on the centerline; and often leave it there when not underway. When not underway, the national ensign is only flown from the stern staff on all vessels.

Here are some tips for flying the American flag correctly:

Do : Choose the right size! The fly (length) should be one inch per foot of overall boat length, with the hoist two-thirds of the fly. Use closest ready-made size.

Don’t : Fly a flag that is too big! It doesn’t mean you are more patriotic, it only means you aren’t displaying the flag respectfully!

Do : Fly it during daylight hours ONLY! The American flag is properly flown ONLY from 0800 to sundown while in the harbor. Other flags (e.g. club burgee, officer’s flags, private signals, fish flags, etc.) may be flown at any time the vessel is in operation.

Don’t : Fly the American flag from the:

• Top of the mast
• Spreader flag halyard
• Fishing outriggers

US Yacht Ensign

American yachts may also fly a flag called the Yacht Ensign. This flag is similar to the U.S. Ensign except a circle of 13 stars surrounding an anchor replaces the 50 stars. It was established by Congress in 1848 to identify yachts that do not have to clear customs when entering ports; licensed yacht were required to fly it. The law has changed so that the yacht ensign is now an option for any American recreational vessel. Thus either the national ensign or yacht ensign may be flown by US yachts, but not simultaneously. When a US yacht sails in international waters, the 50-star flag must be flown and not the yacht ensign.

Club Burgee

Yacht and sailing clubs have flags to distinguish them, called a burgee. Most yacht club burgees are pennant (three sided) shaped like the HYC burgee, but a few clubs use swallow-tailed flags, while a very few use rectangular flags. Our club has a collection of burgees from many other clubs that are displayed in the bar.

Flying the burgee is an important part of belonging to a yacht club and a vessel owned by a member of HYC should fly our burgee with pride. Our burgee has appeared in its present form since 1928.

The burgee is flown from the bow staff on a powerboat, while most sailboats fly the burgee from the starboard spreader. The traditional position at the top of the mast is no longer used because of interference with wind sensors and antennas. Normally a vessel displays only one burgee at a time. Exceptions are made for opening day and other special occasions when owners will string together all burgees of clubs to which they belong, with the HYC burgee at the top of the string for HYC functions.

Officers Flags

The yacht ensign’s circle of 13 stars surrounding an anchor forms the basis for the officer flags used by HYC and many other yacht clubs for the commodore, vice commodore and rear commodore, with the background being blue, red and white respectively. Other officers, such as fleet captain, secretary, treasurer, and past commodore, etc., have their own flags. HYC Past Commodores also have a unique swallow tailed flag to fly, which is the Past Commodore’s flag from 1907. On sailboats the officer flag is flown immediately below the burgee. On powerboats, the officer flag is flown from the mast, with the club burgee keeping its place flown at the bow staff. Officer flags are flown only when the officer is aboard.

Dressing Ship

On national holidays, HYC Opening Day, boat christenings, marine parades and other special occasions yachts often “dress ship” with a rainbow of International Code of Signal flags. The sequence is based on a harmonious color scheme and has no meaning in terms of letters or numerals. Flags are flown beginning with “A” at the forward waterline, over the stem and the top of the mast(s), to the stern and finally to the waterline aft. The flags discussed above are flown in their usual places.

The recommended sequence is: AB2, UJ1, KE3, GH6, IV5, FL4, DM7, PO 3rd Repeater, RN 1st Repeater, ST Zero, CX9, WQ8, ZY 2nd Repeater.

Important: If you don’t have a set of signal flags, sets of decorative pennants are available at modest cost.

Power boats too! This is not just for sailboats.

Private Signals

One of the oldest traditions in yachting is that of the “Private Signal.” A private signal is a unique flag that communicates the presence of a specific individual or family on a boat. They are personal flags, or logos, similar to family crests. The tradition of the private pennant signal, or “house flag,” currently used dates back to the 18th and 19th century when the sailing ship lines were at their peak.

A number of Houston Yacht Club members have private signals, and they are displayed on plaques in the main dining room. This is also a part of the private signal tradition whereby the yacht club displays the private signals of their members. Traditionally, a private signal referred to the owner or his/her family; today some private signals refer to the boat.

The private signal is flown from the starboard spreader flag halyard on both power and sail boats. If a powerboat doesn't have such a halyard, the private signal may be flown at the top of an antenna on the starboard side. Boats without a mast may fly the private signal from the bow staff in place of the burgee.

If you would like to have a private signal, here are some tips for good design:

Shape – You may use any shape, but three types are used primarily for private signals: Non-tapering swallowtail, swallowtail and rectangular. Most clubs use the pennant shape (e.g., the HYC burgee) so the pennant shape is not recommended for private signals.

Keep it Simple – A design without small details is easiest to see from a distance. It is also easiest to reproduce, which is important when you have your flag reproduced on clothing, dishware, etc. Traditionally, initials are not used.

Consider Mirror Image Designs should look nice from both the front and back. Thus, words don’t usually work well since they will read backwards on one side. Double-sided flags can be made but are much more expensive.

Few Colors – flags limited to 2 or 3 colors look better. They are easier to see from a distance and easier to reproduce.

Color Choice – Basic vivid colors work best. Use contrasting colors, light and dark. Colors that are similar, such as blue and green, will be harder to distinguish from a distance.

Other Flags

Courtesy flags: When a US vessel is in the waters of a foreign country, it Is expected that she will fly the host country’s national flag from the starboard spreader on a sailboat or from the starboard spreader of a powerboat with a mast, or the bow staff of a mast- less powerboat. This is especially important for boats going to Mexican or Caribbean ports. Note that the Bahamas, The British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands and the United Kingdom each have red ensign versions of their flag that are the correct flags to be used for this purpose.

Fish or Prize Flags: Fishing boats often fly flags denoting their catch. Flags denoting marlin, wahoo, sailfish and other species are available from marine suppliers. They are flown from the port outrigger or spreader, and are flown upside down if the catch was released.

Blue Gavel Flag: Past commodores of HYC who have been inducted into the International order of the Blue Gavel may fly the IOBG flag. When flown it replaces the past commodore’s flag.

Reference: For history and more detailed information, see Yachting Customs and Courtesies by J.A. Tringali.

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Moscow Boat Tour

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Description

See all the gems of historical and cultural center of the capital in short time and without traffic jams or tiresome walking.

Depending on the itinerary and duration of the Moscow River boat trip, the tour can be 3 or 5 hours.

Highlights of the tour

• St Basil’s Cathedral;
• Stalin skyscraper on Kotelnicheskaya (Tinkers) embankment;
• The Kremlin;
• “House on the Embankment” Stalin skyscraper;
• Monument to Peter I;
• The Central House of Artists;
• Christ the Savior Cathedral;
• Gorky Park;
• Moscow State University;
• Russian Academy of Sciences;
• Luzhniki stadium;
• Novodevichy Monastery;
• Kiev railway station;
• Europe Square;
• Moscow City Hall;
• Government House;
• Expocentre Exhibition Complex;
• and other famous sights.

You will learn about the different epochs of the city from the foundation in 1147 till Soviet times of 20 th  century.

Moscow River

Moskva river has the form of a snake and is the main waterway of Moscow, consisting of a cascade of reservoirs. Within the city, Moskva river is 80 km long, 120 m - 200 m wide and up to 14 m deep. The narrowest part of the river is the Kremlin area in the city center, and the most extensive is around the Luzhniki Stadium in the south. 

Bridges in Moscow

Undoubtedly, bridges and embankments are among the most scenic spots and main attractions of Moscow. Plus, they are so romantic.

• Bolshoy Kamenny Bridge –  Great Stone Bridge –  is the main bridge of Moscow . The first stone bridge was constructed here in the 17th century.
• Patriarshy Bridge  is one of the youngest pedestrian bridges, built in 2004. The bridge connects the iconic Christ the Saviour Cathedral with funky Bersenevskaya embankment, extremely popular place among locals for its trendy art galleries, cafes and panoramic views. Patriarshy Bridge used to be a shooting location for ex-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's New Year speech to the nation.
• Borodinsky Bridge,  erected in honor of the 100th anniversary of the glorious victory in the Battle of Borodino (which every Russian kid knows about), a fierce legendary battle during the Russo-French war of 1812.
• Bagration Bridge  one of the  pedestrian bridges with most picturesque views of the Moskva River with its numerous upper-level observation platforms. The bridge was erected to celebrate the 850th anniversary of Moscow city in 1997.
• Krymsky Bridge  used to be in Top 5 Europe’s longest bridges some 100 years ago. The bridge got its name after the ancient Krymsky ford which Crimean Tartars used to invade Moscow in the 16 th  century.

Embankments of Moscow

Moscow river boats 37 embankments, the most popular being Kremlevskaya, Sofiyskaya, Pushkinskaya, Vorobyovskaya and Kolomenskaya.

You can get the most spectacular views of the Kremlin from  Kremlevskaya and Sofiyskaya embankments.

• Pushkinkaya embankment  is the most romantic in Moscow. It meanders along Gorky Park and Neskuchnyi garden and is rich for all kinds of entertainment as well as cozy nooks, including Olivkovy beach, the famous Zeleny theater as well as a pier for river cruisers.
• Vorobyevskaya embankment  is part of Sparrow Hills nature reserve. This place opens a beautiful panorama of the river and city from the observation deck and is considered to be the place for taking serious decisions in life.
• Embankment in Kolomenskoye  Museum-Reserve has a special charm due to its peculiar geographical relief. The boat trip around Kolomenskoye would be the most peaceful in your life.
• Taras Shevchenko embankment  is popular among photographers for its modern Moscow City skyscrapers. Highly recommended for your night boat trip.
• Embankments of Moscow are the pride of the capital. A distinctive feature of each of the promenades is its architecture and beautiful views. In addition, almost all the embankments of Moscow have a rich history and a lot of notable buildings.

Different epochs

Taking a walk along the Moskva River by boat, you will witness the architecture of Moscow from different eras and styles. Archaeological studies indicate that already in the XI century there stood a fortified settlement on Borovitsky hill, which is now called the Kremlin. Little fortress could not accommodate all the residents of the rapidly growing city, and the Grand Duke ordered the construction of a new Kremlin, larger than the former.

Boat trip around Kolomenskoe Park

Moscow river boat trip starts from the pier Klenovy (Maple) Boulevard and provides reat views of Nicholas Perervinsky monastery.

Nicholas Perervinsky monastery was founded at the time of the Battle of Kulikov (1380). The monastery, got its name from the surrounding area – “Pererva”, which can be translated like “tear off” and because of the location –  here it abruptly changed its course, turning to Kolomna, standing on the opposite bank.

Nowadays Kolomenskoye is State Art, Historical, Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve, which doors are open to everyone who wants to get in touch with the ancient history of Russia.

Take a break from the big city hustle in the shady parks and gardens of the Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve. Don’t miss a wonderful Church of the Ascension and Tsar Alexey’s Palace in Kolomenskoye!

Monasteries and temples

• Novospassky Monastery
• Founded in the 13th century on the site where now is located the Danilovsky monastery. After a few decades, in 1330, Ivan Kalita moved the monastery onto the Borovitskii hill of the Kremlin. However, in the 15th century, Spassky Monastery again moved, this time to a more spacious place on Krasnoholmskaya waterfront.
• Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom
• Erected in the middle of the XVIII century in baroque style. The building survived after the 1812 fire, but the utensils were destoyed. Parishioners collected donations and restored the temple on their own. In Soviet times, it was closed and re-opened only in 1992.
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• The church was originally erected in honor of the victory over Napoleon and was being under construction for long 44 years. Notoriously demolished in 1937 to be a giant swimming pool under open sky. The current building was constructed in 1990s. It is the tallest and one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
• The temple was built in 1679-82, during the reign of Tsar Fedor Alekseevich, in late Muscovite Baroque style and can be characterized as bonfire temple. Each gable is a symbol of a heavenly fire.
• Novodevichy Convent
• The most famous concent and monastery in Moscow, presumably founded in 1524. Novodevichy’s status has always been high among other monasteries, it was in this monastery where the women of the royal blood, the wives of Tsars and local rulers of Moscow were kept in prison as nuns.
• St. Andrew’s church  (male acts as Compound Patriarch of Moscow)
• St. Andrew’s church stands right on the slopes of the Sparrow Hills, on the way down to the Moskva River, on the territory of the Nature Reserve “Sparrow Hills”. The monastery is small in size but is very cozy. It’s situated in a quiet courtyard surrounded by temples, fruit trees and flowers.

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow river cruise.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

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