Code Flags for Yacht Racing

Number Pennants


Code Flag 1

Code Flag 2

Code Flag 3

Code Flag 4

Code Flag 5

Code Flag 6

Code Flag 7

Code Flag 8

Code Flag 9

Code Flag 0

Alphabet and Code Flags
When a visual signal is displayed over a class flag, the signal applies only to that class.
Words in Violet are lame attempts at humor


Answering Pennant
or LAYC Burgee

AP - Answering Pennant
Races not started are postponed. The warning or other signal will be made 1 minute after removal.

AP over a numeral pennant 1-6
Postponement of 1-6 hours from the scheduled starting time.

AP over H -Races not started are postponed. Further signals ashore

AP over A - Races not started are postponed. No more races today.
1st Substitute - General Recall (Refer to Sailing Instructions)
Code Flag Alpha - Can Mean No More Races Today
Code Flag Bravo - Protest Flag or I hate You
Code Flag Charlie - Change of Course to Next Mark
(Usually accompanied by a Multiple Sound Signal)
Code Flag Delta - D
Diver Down - Stay well clear (Divers in the Area)
Code Flag Echo - E
Code Flag Foxtrot - F
Code Flag Golf - Beware of crewmembers wearing strange pants
Code Flag Hotel - Stay Clear of any Tug or Crew Boat flying this flag.
It means a Harbor Pilot is Aboard and Ship Traffic should be Nearby
Code Flag India -
Aboard Committee Boat - Round the Ends Starting Rule
Aboard Competitor - Acknowledgement of Infraction (Partial Penalty)
Code Flag Juliett -
Sometimes used to indicate Number of Laps for Match Racing
Code Flag Kilo - Sometimes aboard Drug Dealer's Boats
Code Flag Lima -
Ashore - A notice to competitors has been posted
Afloat - Come within hail or follow this boat.
Code Flag Mike -
The object displaying this signal replaces a missing mark.

Code Flag November -
All races are abandoned. Return to the starting area. The warning or other signal will be made 1 minute after removal.

N over A - All races are abandoned. No more racing today.

N over H - All races are abandoned. Further signals ashore.
Code Flag Oscar - Man Overboard
or Oscar is Aboard Chayah II
Code Flag Papa - Preparatory signal in Starting System 1.
Code Flag Quebec - Alex Trebek is onboard
Code Flag Romeo - Reverse Course (Go to Last Mark First)
All Marks rounded to starboard will now be rounded to port
and Visa Versa
Code Flag Sierra - Shortened Course
(Usually finishes at next mark or as per Sailing Instructions)
Code Flag Tango - Twice Around
(Usually involves crossing the Start/Finish Line between laps)

Code Flag Uniform -
International - You are running into danger
Code Flag Victor -
International - I require Assistance
Code Flag Whisky - Time to Drink
International -  I require medical assistance.
Code Flag XRay - Individual Recall
Stays up till Over Early boats recross startline or 1 minute to next class
Code Flag Yankee -
Aboard Committee Boat - Lifejackets Required (Usually on Hot Days)
Aboard Match Racer - Protest Signal to Judge Boat
Code Flag Zulu -
Rule 30.2 is in effect. (Removed with one long sound 1 minute before the starting signal).
Jolly Roger - Once flown by Pirates, now flown by Drunks