International Maritime Flags

[pauld123]

Some sources say that the flag for "Y" (red and yellow diagonal stripes) means "I am dragging my anchor, whilst other sources say it means "I am carrying mail". I am guessing that at some time in the past the meaning was officially changed. Which is correct, and when, if ever, did the meaning change from one to the other please. Thank you for your help.

[redman41]

http://everything2.com/title/International%252 0Code%2520of%2520Signals
Have a look at this site as there are several flags with alternative meanings when displayed.
Was in Merchant Navy myself years ago !!
Regards

[pauld123]

http://flagspot.net/flags/xf~icsn.html

Thank you Redman41. The link above implies that the meaning changed at some point. Do you think it is reliable?

[heathfield]

Redman's link offers two meanings for the signal flag ''Y''

There's been no change, and both meanings apply - the signal will, (hopefully), be interpreted correctly by an observer according to the circumstances.

If a ship is under way, or alongside, it will mean ''I am carrying mails''

If a ship is moored in open water, it will mean ''I am dragging my anchor''.

[redman41]

Seems pretty reliable site with all the info they give, but when you get some flags with alternative meanings, trying to find the origin of everything is like trying to trace ones Ancestry as far back as you can. Big Ask !

[pauld123]

Thanks for everyone's advice.