Ball (Day Shape)

A black ball-shaped day signal used alone or in combinations to show a vessel’s status.

Depending on its number and arrangement with other shapes, a ball can contribute to signals for conditions such as being at anchor, aground, not under command or constrained by draught. The complete display must be interpreted rather than treating every ball as an anchor signal.

Day shapes are intended for recognition in daylight and are displayed where they can best be seen. Their required size, spacing and arrangement are set by the applicable collision regulations; prescribed lights provide the corresponding information at night or in restricted visibility.