Operating a vessel flying multiple flags requires understanding the proper display of the American flag alongside other ensigns. According to Public Law 94-344 (the Federal Flag Code), specific rules govern how to display the American flag with other flags to ensure the national ensign maintains its position of honor. Whether you command a commercial vessel, yacht, or recreational boat, knowing these requirements prevents compliance issues and demonstrates respect for national symbols.

The US flag etiquette with other flags on vessels differs from land-based display in several important ways. Maritime traditions, combined with federal regulations, create specific requirements for flag positioning that every vessel operator must understand.

Understanding US Flag Code Requirements for Maritime Flag Display

The United States Flag Code (Public Law 94-344) establishes federal standards for rules for displaying the US flag in all contexts, including maritime operations. While the federal code contains no criminal penalties for misuse, understanding and following the code demonstrates professional seamanship.

For maritime operators, several core principles govern US flag display on vessels:

Position of honor: The American flag must always occupy the position of honor when displayed with other flags. On vessels, the position of honor is typically the stern staff (for motor vessels) or the peak of the gaff (for sailing vessels with gaff rigs). When multiple flags fly on the same vessel, the American flag takes precedence in positioning.

Height and precedence: When flying the American flag with other flags on the same staff or halyard, the American flag must be at the peak the highest point. According to VFW flag etiquette guidelines, no other flag should be positioned above the American flag on American soil or aboard American-flagged vessels.

The right position: In maritime tradition, "the right" refers to the flag's own right when facing forward (the observer's left when viewing from ahead). When displayed with other flags on separate staffs at the same height, the American flag should be positioned to its own right, the position of greatest honor.

Equal height exception: When displaying flags of different nations, the flags should be flown at equal heights on separate staffs during peacetime as a sign of mutual respect. However, the American flag should still be positioned to its own right (starboard side) and should never be smaller than other national flags displayed.

The Federal Flag Code makes clear that the flag is a living symbol deserving of respect. For maritime professionals, proper flag display reflects on the vessel's professionalism and operator's attention to detail qualities that matter during Coast Guard inspections and port state control examinations.

How to Position the American Flag with Other Flags on Boats

Displaying the US flag with other flags on boats requires understanding hierarchy and positioning rules that apply in maritime contexts. The specific configuration depends on your vessel type and the flags you're displaying.

Starboard vs. Port Positioning

In maritime tradition, starboard (the right side when facing forward) is the position of honor. When displaying the American flag with other flags of equal status, the American flag occupies the starboard position. For example, if displaying both an American flag and a yacht club burgee on separate staffs at the same level, the American flag goes to starboard.

When displaying the American flag with flags of other nations, both flags should be at the same height on separate staffs, with the American flag to its own right (starboard). The flags should be of approximately equal size.

Single Staff Display Hierarchy

When multiple flags share a single staff or halyard, the order of flags left to right from top to bottom follows a clear hierarchy on American vessels:

1. American flag at the peak (highest position)

2. POW/MIA flag (if displayed)

3. State flags, organizational flags, or yacht club burgees

4. Company or private signals (lowest position)

According to VFW protocol, since the POW/MIA flag is considered a federal banner, the POW/MIA flag has precedence over all other flags flying on the same pole beneath the U.S. flag. The VFW views the POW/MIA issue as a matter of national importance first, giving the POW/MIA flag a position of prominence.

Critical restriction: Never fly another nation's flag on the same halyard as the American flag. Foreign courtesy flags must be displayed on separate staffs or halyards.

Multiple Mast Considerations

Vessels with multiple masts face additional considerations for correct way to hang the US flag alongside other signals:

On Sailing Vessels with Multiple Masts:

• The American flag typically flies from the stern staff or aftermost peak

• Yacht club burgees fly from the starboard spreader or masthead

• Private signals or owner's flags fly from the port spreader

• Courtesy flags (when in foreign waters) fly from the starboard spreader

On Motor Vessels:

• The American flag flies from the stern staff

• Yacht club burgees may fly from a bow staff or the highest point forward

• Courtesy flags (when in foreign waters) fly from the starboard spreader or yardarm

The key principle: the American flag must be in the most prominent position, typically the stern staff on motor vessels or the peak of the aftermost mast on sailing vessels.

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What Flag Placement Rules Apply to Commercial Vessels

Commercial vessels face additional considerations for flag etiquette with other flags due to regulatory requirements, international operations, and the need to display various signal and company flags.

Commercial Fleet Requirements

Commercial vessels operating under US flag must comply with US Coast Guard regulations regarding flag display. The American flag (national ensign) must be displayed during daylight hours while in port and when meeting or passing other vessels at sea.

Commercial operators should ensure:

• The American flag is properly sized for the vessel (Coast Guard regulations specify minimum sizes based on vessel length)

• The flag is in good condition tattered or faded flags should be replaced promptly

• The flag is illuminated if displayed 24 hours per day

• Company flags or house flags do not overshadow or take precedence over the American flag

According to Federal Flag Code Section 2, paragraph (a), the universal custom is to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed twenty-four hours a day if properly illuminated during hours of darkness.

International Waters Considerations

When operating in international waters, American-flagged vessels maintain the requirement to display the American flag properly. When entering foreign ports, vessels typically add a courtesy flag of the host nation.

Proper courtesy flag display:

• Fly the courtesy flag from the starboard spreader or yardarm

• The courtesy flag should be smaller than the American flag

• Raise the courtesy flag when entering foreign territorial waters

• Keep the courtesy flag flying while in port

• Lower the courtesy flag when departing foreign waters

The American flag remains at the stern staff or its position of honor even when flying a courtesy flag. Never replace the American flag with another nation's flag; both flags should be displayed simultaneously.

Operational Signal Flags

Commercial vessels frequently need to display maritime signal flags for communication purposes. When displaying US flag with other flags including signal flags, maintain clear separation:

• Display operational signal flags on a dedicated signal halyard or mast

• Keep signal flags separate from the national ensign to avoid confusion

• The American flag should not be obscured by signal flags

• When displaying International Code of Signals flags, use proper maritime protocol

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Which Flags can Fly Together with the US Flag

Understanding which flags can fly together with the American flag helps vessel operators maintain proper etiquette while displaying multiple flags for various purposes.

State Flags

State flags may be displayed with the American flag on vessels. When flying the american flag with other flags including state flags:

• On the same staff: American flag at the peak, state flag below

• On separate staffs: American flag should be higher or at the same level to the flag's own right

• State flags should not be larger than the American flag

Many yacht owners and commercial vessels display state flags to show home port or the owner's state of residence. The combination is respectful and appropriate when proper positioning is observed.

Company and Organizational Flags

Corporate house flags, yacht club burgees, and organizational ensigns may be displayed with the American flag, following the same hierarchical principles:

• Company flags should never be on the same staff as the American flag

• Display company flags on a separate forward staff or halyard

• The company flag should be smaller than or equal to the American flag

• Position the company flag in a subordinate position to the national ensign

Important caveat: The Flag Code specifically prohibits using the American flag for advertising purposes. While displaying a company flag alongside the American flag is acceptable, the American flag itself should never be used in commercial advertising or modified to incorporate company logos.

Maritime Signal Flags

Maritime signal flags serve operational communication purposes and may be displayed with the American flag with proper separation. The International Code of Signals uses a specific alphabet of flags for vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore communication.

When displaying the American flag with signal flags:

• Use a dedicated signal halyard separate from the national ensign

• Display signal flags on the starboard or centerline, keeping them distinct from the American flag

• Never mix national ensigns with signal flags on the same halyard

• Lower signal flags when the operational message is complete

Prohibited Combinations

Certain flag combinations or displays are prohibited or disrespectful under the United States Flag Code:

• Never display another nation's flag on the same staff as the American flag

• Never fly any flag above the American flag on the same staff (exception: church pennant during religious services conducted by naval chaplains at sea)

• Never allow any flag to be larger than the American flag when displayed together

• Never display the American flag subordinate to any other flag on American vessels

These restrictions ensure the American flag maintains its position of honor and prevents disrespectful display.

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When to Display Maritime Signal Flags with National Colors

The relationship between maritime signal flags and national colors requires understanding the difference between operational communication and ceremonial display.

Operational vs. Ceremonial Contexts

Operational signal flag display occurs when vessels need to communicate specific messages using the International Code of Signals. In operational contexts:

• Signal flags fly from a dedicated signal halyard

• Signals are displayed until acknowledged or the situation changes

• Multiple signal flags may be combined to convey complex messages

• The American flag continues to fly in its position of honor separately from operational signals

Ceremonial or decorative flag display occurs during celebrations, holidays, or special events. When vessels "dress ship" with signal flags for ceremonial purposes, the flags are arranged for visual effect. Even in ceremonial contexts:

• The American flag maintains its position of honor at the stern staff or peak

• Ceremonial flag displays should not obscure or diminish the American flag

• All flags should be in good condition and properly secured

Communication Flag Protocols

When using signal flags for actual maritime communication alongside the American flag:

Single flag signals: Display the appropriate signal flag from the starboard yardarm or dedicated signal halyard while the American flag remains at the stern staff.

Multiple flag signals: Hoist the flag combination on a signal halyard, ensuring the flags are clearly visible and distinct from the national ensign.

The American flag is not part of the International Code of Signals and should never be used as a communication flag. The national ensign remains in its position of honor regardless of what operational signals are being displayed.

Where to Mount Multiple Flags on Different Vessel Types

Proper display of the American flag and other flags varies based on vessel configuration. Understanding appropriate mounting locations for your vessel type ensures compliance and proper maritime etiquette.

Sailboat Configurations

Traditional sailing vessels with gaff rigs, marconi rigs, or other configurations each have established practices:

Gaff-rigged sailboats:

• American flag flies from the peak of the gaff (the outer end of the gaff spar)

• Yacht club burgee flies from the mainmast truck (top of the mast)

• Private signals fly from the starboard spreader

• Courtesy flags (in foreign waters) fly from the starboard spreader

Marconi-rigged (Bermudian) sailboats:

• American flag flies from the stern staff (most common)

• Yacht club burgee flies from the mainmast truck

• Private signals fly from the starboard spreader

• Courtesy flags fly from the starboard spreader

Multiple-masted sailing vessels:

• American flag flies from the peak of the aftermost mast or stern staff

• Yacht club burgee flies from the mainmast truck

• Additional signals distribute according to traditional sailing vessel protocol

The stern staff mounting has become standard practice on modern sailboats because the position keeps the flag clear of sails and rigging while maintaining visibility.

Motor Vessel Setups

Power vessels, from small runabouts to large motor yachts, typically use a stern staff for the American flag:

Small to medium motor vessels:

• American flag on stern staff

• Yacht club burgee (if applicable) on bow staff

• Other flags on separate staffs as needed, maintaining American flag prominence

Large motor yachts:

• American flag on stern staff

• Yacht club burgee on foremast or bow staff

• Courtesy flags on starboard spreader or yardarm

• Private signals and other flags on designated staff positions

Specific mounting considerations:

• The stern staff should be angled to keep the flag clear of the vessel and visible

• Flags should be sized appropriately for vessel length

• All staff mountings should be secure and able to withstand wind loads at sea

Commercial Ship Arrangements

Large commercial vessels like cargo ships, tankers, passenger vessels follow established maritime tradition:

Typical commercial vessel flag positions:

• National ensign (American flag) at the stern staff or ensign halyard

• House flag or company flag at the foremast or designated position forward

• Signal flags on signal halyard (usually on or near the bridge)

• Courtesy flags on starboard yardarm when in foreign ports

• Pilot flag, quarantine flag, and other operational flags on designated halyards

Size requirements: The American flag on commercial vessels should be sized proportionally to vessel length. As a general guideline:

• Vessels under 100 feet: flags approximately 12" x 18" to 24" x 36"

• Vessels 100-200 feet: flags approximately 3' x 5' to 4' x 6'

• Vessels over 200 feet: flags 5' x 8' or larger

Commercial operators should ensure flags are made from durable maritime-grade materials, properly secured with appropriate halyards, and regularly inspected and replaced when showing wear.

Common Flag Display Mistakes Maritime Operators Make

Even experienced mariners sometimes make errors in flag etiquette with other flags. Understanding common mistakes helps you avoid them:

Positioning Errors

Mistake 1: Flying another nation's flag on the same staff as the American flag Correct practice: Foreign flags must be displayed on separate staff or halyard, never on the same staff as the American flag.

Mistake 2: Flying company flags above or equal to the American flag Correct practice: The American flag must be at the highest point when sharing a staff, or at the position of honor (stern staff) when on separate staffs.

Mistake 3: Flying flags at improper heights Correct practice: When displaying the American flag with other flags of equal rank, all flags should be at approximately the same height, with the American flag to its own right (starboard).

Size and Condition Issues

Mistake 4: Using flags of improper size Correct practice: The American flag should be the largest flag displayed, or at minimum equal in size to the largest flag on the vessel.

Mistake 5: Flying worn or damaged flags Correct practice: Flags should be in good condition. According to VFW guidelines, faded, torn, or frayed flags should be retired properly through ceremonial burning or by contacting VFW or similar organizations.

Mistake 6: Using flags made from inappropriate materials Correct practice: Maritime flags should be manufactured from marine-grade materials designed to withstand sun, wind, and salt spray.

Display Timing Issues

Mistake 7: Flying flags at night without illumination Correct practice: Per Federal Flag Code Section 2, paragraph (a), flags should be displayed only from sunrise to sunset unless properly illuminated. If you fly the flag 24 hours, install adequate lighting to illuminate the flag during darkness.

Mistake 8: Improper half-staff display Correct practice: The American flag is flown at half-staff only on specific days or by presidential proclamation. On Memorial Day, the flag is flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to full staff.

Operational Protocol Mistakes

Mistake 9: Hoisting flags in incorrect sequence Correct practice: When raising multiple flags, the American flag should be hoisted first and lowered last. According to flag etiquette guidelines, when the American Flag is carried in a procession with other flags, it should be to its own right or in the center of a line of flags.

Mistake 10: Mixing signal flags with national ensigns Correct practice: Signal flags for communication should be displayed on separate halyards from the national ensign to avoid confusion.

Quick Compliance Checklist

•  American flag is at the position of honor (stern staff or highest point)

•  American flag is the largest or equal to the largest flag displayed

•  American flag is in good condition (no tears, fading, or damage)

•  No foreign flags share the same staff as the American flag

•  All flags are properly secured

•  If displaying flags 24 hours, adequate illumination is installed

•  Company or organizational flags are subordinate to the American flag

•  Signal flags (if used) are on separate halyards from the national ensign

•  All flags are appropriate size for vessel length

•  Flag display complies with Flag Code requirements and maritime tradition

Maintaining Compliant Flag Display Standards

Proper display of the American flag alongside other flags on your vessel reflects professional seamanship, respect for maritime tradition, and attention to details that distinguish well-operated vessels. Whether you command a commercial ship, operate a yacht, or enjoy recreational boating, understanding and following the United States Flag Code ensures your flag display honors national symbols while maintaining maritime protocol.

The principles are straightforward: the American flag must maintain the position of honor, whether that means flying at the highest point on a shared staff, occupying the stern staff position, or being positioned to its own right when displayed with other flags at equal heights. Size matters the American flag should be the largest or equal to the largest flag displayed. Condition matters worn or damaged flags should be replaced promptly. And separation matters operational signal flags, foreign courtesy flags, and other ensigns should be displayed on separate halyards or staffs with proper subordination to the national ensign.

American Nautical Services has supported maritime professionals and vessel operators since 1977 with high-quality flags and maritime supplies designed to withstand demanding marine conditions. Our international flags, marine signal flags, and specialty flags meet maritime standards for construction, color-fastness, and durability ensuring your vessel's flags maintain professional appearance throughout their service life.

Proper flag display is more than regulatory compliance. Flag display communicates respect for tradition, attention to seamanship fundamentals, and pride in vessel operation. When your flags are properly displayed, sized, and maintained, you signal to other mariners, port officials, and guests that your vessel is operated to high professional standards in all respects.

About American Nautical Services: ISO 9001 certified since 1977, official Admiralty chart agent, GSA contract holder. We provide comprehensive maritime navigation solutions including charts, publications, training, and maritime supplies for commercial vessels, yachts, and government maritime organizations worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I fly my company flag at the same height as the American flag on my commercial vessel?
No. While you can fly your company flag on a separate staff, the American flag must be displayed at the highest point or in the position of honor on vessels operating in U.S. waters. If both flags are on separate staffs at the same level, the American flag should be positioned to its own right (starboard) and should be equal to or larger than the company flag.

Q. What's the proper way to display the American flag with maritime signal flags?
Signal flags should be displayed separately from the American flag, typically on a signal mast or different halyard to avoid confusion with official communications. The American flag serves as the national ensign and occupies the position of honor (usually the stern staff), while signal flags for operational communication fly from a dedicated signal halyard. Never mix the American flag with signal flags on the same halyard.

Q. Do recreational boats need to follow the same flag display rules as commercial vessels?
Yes, the United States Flag Code applies to all vessels regardless of whether commercial or recreational. While the federal code contains no criminal penalties, some states have their own flag codes with penalties. For recreational boaters, proper flag display is primarily a matter of respect, tradition, and seamanship.

Q. How should I display the American flag with my yacht club burgee?
The American flag takes precedence at the stern staff (on motor boats) or the peak of the gaff (on gaff-rigged sailboats). On marconi-rigged sailboats, the American flag typically flies from the stern staff. The yacht club burgee flies from the starboard spreader or, on traditional vessels, from the mainmast truck. Never fly the burgee above or in place of the American flag.

Q. What happens if I display the American flag incorrectly with other flags on my vessel?
While the federal Flag Code contains no criminal penalties, improper display can result in Coast Guard advisories, port authority notices, or professional reputation issues for commercial operators. During Coast Guard inspections or port state control examinations, improper flag display reflects poorly on vessel's professional standards.

Q. Can I fly international maritime flags alongside the American flag?
Yes, courtesy flags and international signals should be displayed according to maritime protocol, with the American flag maintaining position of honor. When entering foreign ports, fly the host nation's flag (courtesy flag) from the starboard spreader, keeping the American flag at the stern staff.

Q. How do I properly illuminate flags for nighttime display?
If you fly the American flag 24 hours per day, proper illumination during hours of darkness is required per Federal Flag Code guidelines. Install lighting that adequately illuminates the entire flag the light source should be positioned to shine on the flag without creating glare that interferes with navigation. The illumination should be sufficient that the flag's colors are clearly visible throughout the night.