When should a quarantine flag be flown?

A quarantine flag should be flown when a vessel first pulls into a foreign country port, indicating to customs and health officials that the vessel has arrived and is awaiting clearance. This flag serves as a notice that the vessel is not yet cleared for entry and that inspection may be required before any passengers or crew disembark. Flying the quarantine flag is a protocol aimed at preventing the spread of diseases and ensuring that proper inspections are conducted.

The other scenarios presented do not require the use of a quarantine flag. For instance, a vessel in distress would typically signal for assistance through different means, such as signaling flags or distress signals, rather than a quarantine flag. While heavy weather conditions may necessitate other safety signals or preparations, they do not relate to sanitary inspections or customs clearance. Similarly, being docked at a marina does not warrant a quarantine flag unless the vessel is waiting for inspection upon arrival from a foreign port.