Red Ensign

We have had this flag for years, dating back to when we Last owned a boat (2001).

The most senior position for a flag on a vessel is reserved for the Ensign - this is as close to the stern of the vessel as possible. The Ensign shows the country of registry of the vessel and indicates its nationality.

The Australian Red Ensign is a predominantly red version of the Australian National Flag, using the same shade of red as the Cross of Saint George which is part of the Union Jack present in the canton.

It has three elements, the Union Jack in the upper left corner (or canton), the white Commonwealth Star underneath it and the Southern Cross on the fly (or right hand side) of the flag in white.

The British Red Ensign is used by Merchant ships and private vessels, and in several Commonwealth countries (including Australia) the Red Ensign has the addition of emblems/flags of that country.