Sailing Race Flags: A Quick Reference

Flags are the race committee's voice

Sailboat races are run almost entirely with flag signals. Sound signals draw your attention; flags tell you what's actually happening. Memorizing the most common dozen flags is the difference between a confident racer and a confused one.

Starting sequence flags

• Class flag — Identifies which class is starting. Hoisted at 5 minutes, dropped at the start.
• P (blue with white rectangle) — Standard preparatory flag.
• I — Round-the-ends rule active.
• Z — 20% scoring penalty for premature starters.
• U — Disqualification without a general recall.
• Black flag — Disqualification, cannot restart even after a general recall.

Recall flags

• X flag (white with blue cross) — Individual recall.
• First Substitute (yellow triangle) — General recall.

Course and postponement

• AP (Answering Pennant, red and white stripes) — Postponed. Races on hold until the AP comes down.
• N (blue and white checks) — All races abandoned.
• Code S — Shortened course; finish at the next mark.
• Course flags (numbers) — Indicate which course will be sailed.

Other useful flags

• C flag — Course change.
• L flag — Come within hailing distance, or notice posted ashore.
• Y flag — PFDs must be worn.
• Blue flag — Committee boat is on station and finishing.

Where to learn the rest

The Racing Rules of Sailing publishes a full flag chart in Race Signals at the start of the rulebook. Print it, laminate it, keep it on board.

Takeaways

• Sound = attention, flag = information.
• Know the prep flags before the gun; they change your start strategy.
• Always check AP, X, and First Substitute before assuming the race is on.