Flag Ettiquette

[pandroid]

Here's a nerdy question. When dressing a ship overall, there's a defined sequence to the order of the signal flags. I've looked through all my books and on this forum, but I can't find it. Anyone know what the correct sequence is?

 

[paulineb]

It's in the Reeds Macmillan Almanac.

Pxx

 

[iangrant]

A rainbow of flags of the International Code is arranged, reaching from the water line forward to the water line aft, by way of the bowsprit end (or stem if there's no bowsprit) and the masthead(s). Flags and pennants are bent on alternately, rather than in any indiscriminate manner. Since there are twice as many letter flags as numeral pennants, it is good practice, as in the Navy, to follow a sequence of two flags, one pennant, two flags, one pennant, throughout. The sequence recommended here provides a harmonious color pattern throughout:

Starting from forward: AB2, UJ1, KE3, GH6, IV5, FL4, DM7, PO Third Repeater, RN First Repeater, ST Zero, CX9, WQ8, ZY Second Repeater.

 

[cgull]

this order is different from my mcmillans yachtsmans handbook on dressing ship.
Obviously its important to do correctly especially Jubilee year. One can buy ready made strings.

 

[pandroid]

I thought it was too, but where? I've been through my (2002) version and cant find a reference to it.
(searching......)

 

[paulineb]

Use the index at the back of the book. I haven't got mine with me, but I think it's under 'flags' or maybe 'dressing'

Pxx

 

[Guest]

The definitive answer to your question is to be found in the Admiralty Manual of Seamanship Volume 1 under the heading Dressing and Illuminating Ship

 

[Andrew_Bray]

Re: Flag Etiquette

The correct sequence (Royal Navy) is, bow to stern:

E, Q, p3, G, p8, Z, p4, W, p6, p1, I, answering pendant, T, Y, B, X, 1st sub, H, 3rd sub, D, F, 2nd sub, U, A, O, M, R, p2, J, p0, N, p9, V, p5, L, C, S

Ready made strings are fine for village fetes but not when dressing overall.

 

[pandroid]

Re: Flag Etiquette

You are a Gentleman and a Scholar. EXACTLY what I was looking for. Many Thanks

 

[Jeremy_W]

Re: Flag Etiquette

I think the sequence is different for single and multiple masted vessels. Your sequence, I guess, is for multiple masts.