Dip the Ensign

To lower a vessel’s ensign temporarily as a traditional maritime salute.

The ensign is lowered part-way or, where the arrangement permits, close to the deck, then re-hoisted after the salute is acknowledged. The custom is most often associated with a merchant vessel saluting a warship or with formal maritime occasions.

Flag etiquette and who may initiate or return a salute vary by state, service and circumstance. The manoeuvre must not compromise safe vessel operation, and the ensign should not be allowed to trail in the water or become fouled.