Nautical Signal Flags

Signal flags, as a part of the International Code of Signals can be used to communicate messages from one vessel to another while at sea. Signal flags, which have alpha-numeric correspondence, can be used to spell out messages; although mariners usually employ nautical signal flags in combinations which correspond to particular messages. Mariners string signal flags end-to-end and hang them from the rigging in bow-to-stern direction. Signal flags are also used to dress ships for ceremonial and festive occasions.

 

The History of Nautical Signal Flags

The International Code of Signals has been in continuous use since 1857, when it was published by the British Board of Trade as a means of maritime communications. The original Code contained 17,000 signals using 18 signal flags, some of which were specific to the United Kingdom. The Code was revised in 1932 to include seven languages: English, French German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish and Norwegian. When the code was revised again in 1969, the revision included Russian and Greek, plus giving a complete meaning to each of the alpha-numeric nautical signal flags

Meanings of Nautical Signal Flags

Besides having alpha-numeric correspondence, signal flags also have specific meanings when flown upon a vessel. The International Code of Signals specifies a meaning for each of the signal flags. We have listed below each of the signal flags, the letters and messages to which they correspond.

 

 

 

 

signal flags : a
A (Alfa) - Diver Below (when stationary) or "I am undergoing a speed trial."

signal flags : b
B (Bravo) - "I am taking on, or discharging explosives."

signal flags : c
C (Charlie) - "Affirmative"

 

 

 

signal flags : d
D (Delta) - "Keep clear of me, I am manouvering with difficulty."

signal flags : e
E (Echo) - "I am altering my course to starboard."

signal flags : f
F (Foxtrot) - "I am disabled, communicate with me."

 

 

 

signal flags : g
G (Golf) - "I require a pilot."

signal flags : h
H (Hotel) -"I have a pilot on board."

signal flags : i
I (India) - "I am altering my course to port."

 

 

 

signal flags : j
J (Juliet) - "I am on fire and have dangerous cargo on board, keep well clear of me! OR "I am going to send a message by semaphore."

signal flags : k
K (Kilo) - "You should stop. I have something important to communicate."

signal flags : l
L (Lima) -"You should stop your vessel instantly."

 

 

 

signal flags : m
M (Mike) - "I am stopped." OR "I have a doctor on board."

signal flags : n
N (November) - No, "negative"

signal flags : o
O (Oscar) - Man overboard

 

 

 

 

 

 

signal flags : p
P (Papa) - The Blue Peter: "All aboard, vessel is about to proceed sea." If already at sea - "Your lights are out or burning badly." Fishing boat at sea - "My nets have come fast upon an obstruction."

signal flags : q
Q (Quebec) - "My vessel is healthy and I request free practique."

signal flags : r
R (Romeo) - "The way is off my ship. You may feel your way past me."

 

 

 

signal flags : s
S (Sierra) - "My engines are going full speed astern."

signal flags : t
T (Tango) - "Keep clear of me, I am engaged in pair trawling." OR "Do not pass ahead of me."

signal flags : u
U (Uniform) - "You are running into danger."

 

 

 

signal flags : v
V (Victor) - "I require assistance." (not distress)

signal flags : w
W (Whiskey) - "I require medical assistance."

signal flags : x
X (X-Ray) - "Stop carrying out your intentions and watch for my signals."

 

 

 

signal flags : y
Y (Yankee) - "I am dragging anchor." OR "I am carrying mails."

signal flags : z
Z (Zulu) - "I require a tug." or can be used to address or call shore stations

signal flags : answer flag
Code & Answering Flag

 

 

 

signal flags : substitute flag 1
First substitute flag

signal flags : substitute flag 2
Second substitute flag

signal flags : substitute flag 3
Third substitute flag

 

 

 

signal flags : 11

signal flags : 22

signal flags : 33

 

 

 

signal flags : 44

signal flags : 55

signal flags : 66

 

 

 

signal flags : 77

signal flags : 88

signal flags : 99

 

 

 

signal flags : 00