Golf (G)
maritime signalsmaritimesignal flagnavigation
The Golf flag has six alternating vertical stripes of yellow and blue. It signals 'I require a pilot,' meaning the vessel needs a licensed harbor pilot to guide it safely into port. Pilotage is mandatory in many ports worldwide, and this flag alerts pilot stations that a vessel is approaching and ready for boarding.
Harbor pilots are among the highest-paid mariners in the world. They board ships via a rope ladder from a small pilot boat, often in rough seas, making it one of the most dangerous routine operations in commercial shipping.
Adopted: 1857
