The blue and white marine flag is a symbol of maritime safety and is used by boats and ships all over the world. It is also known as the International Code of Signals (ICS) and is used to communicate between vessels. The flag is used by seafarers to signal their intentions, identify the vessel, and warn other vessels of danger. It is a combination of two flags, the blue and white, and each flag has a specific meaning and purpose.
The blue and white flag, also known as the ICS, is made up of two flags, the blue and white. The blue flag has a rectangular shape and is divided into four equal parts. The top-left corner is white with a blue line extending from it to the bottom-left corner. The top-right corner is blue with a white line extending from it to the bottom-right corner. The white flag is also rectangular and has a blue cross in the center. The blue and white flags are used together to communicate messages to other vessels.
The blue and white flag is used for a variety of purposes. It can be used to identify a vessel, signal a request for assistance, or warn of danger. When the blue and white flags are flown in combination, they can indicate a variety of messages. The most common messages are:
Table of Blue and White Flag Meanings
| Flag Combination | Meaning |
| Blue and White | I am in distress and require assistance. |
| Blue over White | Stop immediately and remain stopped. |
| White over Blue | I require a pilot. |
| Blue over White over Blue | My vessel is stopped and making no way through the water. |
The blue and white flag is also used to indicate a vessel’s nationality. The flag of the country of origin is typically displayed on the top-left corner of the blue flag. The flag of the country of destination is typically displayed on the top-right corner of the white flag. This is used to identify a vessel as it travels through international waters.
The blue and white marine flag is also used to signal a request for help. In such cases, the flags are flown upside down. This is a signal of distress and indicates that a vessel is in danger and requires assistance. In some cases, the flag is also accompanied by a distress flare or other signal of distress.
The blue and white marine flag is a universal symbol of maritime safety and is used by vessels all over the world. It is a combination of two flags, the blue and white, and each flag has a specific meaning and purpose. The flag is used to communicate messages to other vessels, identify a vessel’s nationality, and signal a request for help. It is an important tool in ensuring maritime safety.