otnmbrd wrote:


Interesting. We have always flown the flag of the "host" nation
(courtesy flag) upon near approach to the port of entry and prior to
picking up a pilot.
In some cases, the local authorities were slightly upset when this was
not done, but this may have more to do with the normal plethora of
halyards available on most ships, as compared to many yachts.

Yeah. I get uncomfortable too, so revert to "Plan B" which is to fly the "Q"
flag under the courtesy flag (never above, of course), and when cleared just
remove it.

It may not be absolutely official, but often one must give in to others' ignorance.

BTW, along those lines, does everyone know that the order of rank/precedence for
flying flags is: 1)Gaff of mainmast, 2) BOW post, 3) Stern pole.

So, officially, if one flies a courtesy flag from the bow the only place for the
National Ensign is a gaff. That makes the even more prevalent use of that pole
for a club burgee even wronger.