Courtesy Ensign

A national flag flown by a visiting vessel in foreign waters as a gesture of respect to the host country.

A courtesy ensign is a flag flown by a vessel when it enters the territorial waters of a foreign nation, typically displayed on the starboard spreader or another prominent position. This flag is the national flag of the country being visited and is flown as a mark of respect and goodwill towards the host nation. It is customary for vessels to hoist the courtesy ensign after entering the foreign nation’s waters and to lower it when leaving. The courtesy ensign should be in good condition, as a tattered or faded flag can be seen as disrespectful. 

In many cases, the courtesy ensign is a smaller version of the host nation’s national flag, but in certain countries, specific maritime versions of the national flag are used. For example, in the UK, a visiting vessel would fly the Red Ensign as a courtesy flag rather than the Union Jack. The practice of flying a courtesy ensign is part of international maritime etiquette and helps to foster positive relations between seafaring nations. It is also important to note that the courtesy ensign should not be flown at a higher position than the vessel’s own national flag, as this could imply subordination or disrespect to the vessel’s home country.