The flag of the Bahamas has a black equilateral triangle on the left that represents the unity and determination of the people of the Bahamas. The triangle is oriented toward three equal-width stripes symbolizing areas of natural resource; two aquamarine stripes at the top and bottom of the flag representing the sea and one gold stripe representing the land. The flag was adopted on July 10, 1973. The civil ensign is a red ensign with a white cross throughout and the national flag in the upper-hoist corner. This sign is also known as the Merchant Marine Bahamas Courtesy Flag.
A visitor flag is normally not hoisted until the vessel is properly cleared by customs and immigration. Until clearance is complete, fly the yellow Q (quarantine) flag.