'V' Sheet

[pulyajibon]

Hello!

I have a question. Some days ago I had to put up my V sheet. While doing this I was thinking about, what does the black printed V in the middle of the flag stands for.
I know it’s a distress flag but why V

Maybe some of you guys can give me an answer to this question.

[MarkJ]

Oh, thats easy: It comes from fingers. Hold those two up to a Policeman and you get instant attention.

[Talbot]

It is a bit of a pity that our knowledge of the old international signal code is withering away. Nowadays most know flag Bravo (Diving) and Q (Practique), but the knowledge and recognition of the rest is a thing of the past. The International code also had specific combinations of flags that also were important, for example RY which basically told people to reduce their wash as they go past.


I would suspect these days that if you fly such a hoist a passing mobo will thunder up and ask if you were having a party.

[captain465]

Last time I looked, the ALPHA flag indicated "diver down". The BRAVO flag is flown during fueling or ammunition handling operations. Fuel barges also fly the BRAVO flag.

[GordMay]

Code Flags: International Code Flags or Signaling Flags - BoatSafe.com

Diver Down & Aplha (Int'l Diver Down)
Victor - I require Assistance
Bravo - Dangerous Cargo
Marine V Sheet - Distress (Australia)

[David M]

The flags are still used quite a bit by commercial vessels, but more as a measure to cover their rear ends. I fly both Alfa and the dive flag during dive op's. As for day shapes, I fly the ball-diamond-ball periodically such as when I have equipment over the side. I don't expect most people out on the water to know what it means though. I sometimes get "the look" from sailors who had to alter their course to avoid me.

I really wished people used flags more often, if not anything else, they dress a boat up a little.

[Talbot]

Originally Posted by captain465

Last time I looked, the ALPHA flag indicated "diver down". The BRAVO flag is flown during fueling or ammunition handling operations. Fuel barges also fly the BRAVO flag.

Sorry my sense of humour got the better of me - to see if anyone was paying attention.