Flag etiquette

[Steve Vyse]

According to the RYA "The most senior position for a flag on a vessel is reserved for the Ensign - this is worn as close to the stern of the vessel as possible and denotes the nationality of the vessel. A UK registered vessel should wear the national maritime flag, the Red Ensign, unless entitled to wear a privileged Ensign".

So my question is this - it is seems to be generally accepted that an SYC boat flying the Ensign is cruising rather than racing. If I am heading offshore in a cross channel, is it acceptable to fly both the racing pennant and the Ensign?


Steve

[Brett]

It is part of the etiquette that an ensign is not flown when racing.

[Robin Stevenson]

Hi Steve.  Brett is correct, however it is also confusing for other vessels if you fly both... Generally yachts racing will not be flying an Ensign, so we can choose to sail clear of them so as not to take their wind for example. Also in some sailing instructions, we are required to fly our ensign in the event that we retire from the race.