-The flag located at the top of the mast indicates the vessel’s fleet. The vessel’s fleet could be the shipping company or the navy that owns the ship. The national flag of where the vessel originates is flown at the end of the gaff, the most honorable spot on the pole. The gaff is at the tail end of the pole, behind the mast. Nautical signal flags are flown from either of the yardarms, the outer ends of the pole which crosses the mast. Thank you for your question! If you have a question about flags and flag etiquette email me at egadow@tuffflags.com and perhaps your question will be featured!
