Courtesy Ensign

The appropriate flag of a host state flown by a visiting vessel in accordance with local law and maritime custom.

It is normally hoisted after clearance or entry into the host state’s waters at the position customary for a foreign national flag, often the starboard spreader on a yacht. The correct design may be a national flag, civil ensign or other specified maritime flag and should be checked before arrival.

Practice, hours and positioning vary between countries and vessel rigs. The courtesy ensign is distinct from the vessel’s own national ensign and from the Q flag used to request pratique; generic claims about exact hoisting moment, size or relative height should not replace local requirements.