Forums > Sailing General

Signal flag

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Created by garymalmgren A week ago, 20 Feb 2026
garymalmgren
1367 posts
20 Feb 2026 7:24PM
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Here in Japan signal flags are the norm.
What is this one?

Planter
NSW, 167 posts
21 Feb 2026 5:33AM
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Coming to get you ?

garymalmgren
1367 posts
21 Feb 2026 6:10AM
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Close Planter.
I am towing a submerged object.
Around here that is usually aquaculture gear like fish breeding frames, oyster or scallop farms.

Failed that one in my license. That;s why I know now.

Quixotic
ACT, 224 posts
21 Feb 2026 1:18PM
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Interesting. Is this flag/kite peculiar to Japan? I tend to associate a red and white flag with indicating a pilot vessel.

Do they also show day shapes, such as a black diamond for towing with line more than 200 metres, and lights at night - 2 white lights for towing with line less than 200m and 3 white lights for more than 200m?

Not that I expect to be sailing in Japan anytime...

garymalmgren
1367 posts
21 Feb 2026 5:50PM
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Looks like you are close to correct Quix.

Japan has specific national marine regulations for heavy traffic areas. These differ from international regs.
I posted that this flag was ,I am towing a submerged object. That's what it means in my area.
But in heavy traffic areas it is like an escort vehicle for wide loads on the road.
I actually means. There is a big bugger behind me and he has the right of way, no matter what you think.
I didn't know that and now I do.gary



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"Signal flag" started by garymalmgren