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Displaying your colors: a maritime obligation
Flying the national flag is not just a matter of maritime folklore or patriotic attachment. It's a legal obligation for all French-flagged ships, particularly when sailing internationally, but also at certain times in French territorial waters.
In accordance with Articles 91 and 92 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Montego Bay), the flag identifies the ship's nationality. At sea, it is a sign of sovereignty, particularly during an inspection or when entering a foreign port. Even if it's not a common practice, it's advisable to hoist it during the day, from 08:00 onwards, and to hoist it at nightfall, especially when the crew is on board
Where to place the national flag on board?
The stern remains the traditional position. The national flag is normally attached to a sloping flagpole mounted at the stern of the boat. On sailboats, this flagpole is often installed on the aft balcony, sometimes integrated into an existing support (davits or gantry).
On boats without such an installation, some practices tolerate the installation on the backstay, although this can be assimilated to a sign of mourning in the naval tradition. Others prefer to hoist it on the mainsail topping lift, or under the horn on older rigs.
When sailing, it is essential for the flag to be visible to float freely, without tangling or touching any part of the boat.
What size pavilion to choose?
The size of the flag is proportional to the overall length of the boat. The commonly accepted rule is choose a size equivalent to 1/100th to 1/10th of the boat's length .
For example, a 10 m sailboat will ideally fly a 100 to 150 cm long flag for official occasions (July 14th, arrival in port) and a smaller one for everyday sailing (50 to 70 cm long).
The pavilion must always be clean and in good condition, with no fraying or faded colors.
Which pole to choose and how to attach it?
The headlights are available in stainless steel, aluminum or varnished wood . The most aesthetically pleasing and maritime are made of curved wood, with an "apple" at the head. Some build them themselves in Robinia, Douglas fir or chestnut â?" local species that are UV- and weather-resistant.
The flagpole foot can be a simple tube inserted into the balcony, a dedicated screwed bracket or a gallows inclined at 30 degrees.
How to tie the flag?
If you want to avoid over-tying, several sailor knots can ensure a clean attachment:
- Double listening node widely used in the navy.
- Prusik knot appreciated for its ease of undoing.
- Chair knot, capstan or cleat knot on wooden shaft with cleat.
A pavilion halyard with sheave and cleat allows it to be hoisted and shod cleanly, as on traditional units.
Naval etiquette: customs to be respected
Even if they are not always binding, certain customs are part of maritime decorum :
- Do not hoist the national flag on the backstay unless there is no alternative.
- Do not leave it floating overnight, except in exceptional circumstances.
- Adapt your size to the circumstances.
- Let the red corner (bottom right) skim the water in windless harbor, for purists.
- At sea, lower it temporarily in the event of bereavement on board.
