When underway on a merchant ship, where is the ensign flown from?

The ensign is traditionally flown from the gaff on a merchant ship when underway. The gaff is the spar that extends horizontally from the mast and is typically used for the flying of signal flags and ensigns.

Flying the ensign from the gaff is a standard practice that aligns with maritime tradition, where it distinguishes the nationality of the vessel and serves as a visual representation of the ship's registry. During ceremonial occasions or special events, it is also common to observe the ensign flown from the gaff, reinforcing its significance.

While options such as the mast, flagstaff, and bow may serve as locations for flags, they do not conform to the traditional practice of displaying the ensign specifically on a merchant vessel while underway. The flagstaff is used more commonly for different types of flags or signals, and the mast may be reserved for other ceremonial flags or pennants, but the ensign's designated place is the gaff.