The White Ensign

Whilst underway at sea the White Ensign is flown either on the Ensign Staff or more usually on the mainmast or foremast.

The White Ensign is hoisted at the ceremony of Colours (09:00 or as in summer routine 08:00) by all Royal Navy warships in commission whilst alongside or at anchor each day, along with the Jack, until sunset.

Five minutes before Colours a preparative flag is hoisted at the yardarm. At Colours the preparative flag is hauled down and the signalman alongside the ensign staff will announce Colours. The Bosun’s Mate will then pipe the ‘still’ using the bosun’s call. All hands on deck will face aft and stand to attention, saluting as the ensign and Jack are slowly hoisted. Once the ensign and Jack are hoisted the ‘carry on’ will then be piped using the bosun’s call. The halyards will then be secured to the staffs.

For Sunset a similar procedure is followed.

Sunset

The ceremony of Sunset being carried out by former bunting David Axford (ex HMS Kirkliston 1969-1971)