Sailing and Boating

“Rules of the Road Flash Cards”

Contains over 35 cards to make learning and memorization easy.

They are the perfect size of playing cards, colorful and laminated.

The set includes:

12 Day Flags Cards
12 Light Flags Cards
11 Sound Signal Cards

You will find your Day Flags, Light Signals, and Sound Signals.

Day Flags

Day flags are visual indicators that vessels display during daylight hours to communicate their operational status or restricted movement to other vessels. Each shape has a specific meaning, and understanding them helps sailors interpret another vessel’s conditions or limitations. Day shapes are typically black geometric shapes (ball, cone, cylinder, or diamond) hung from the rigging or mast where they are easily visible.

Sound Signals

Sound signals, often made with a horn or bell, communicate intentions, warnings, and status, especially in fog, low visibility, or when vessels are approaching each other. Different sequences of sound blasts are used for different purposes. These signals help vessels understand each other’s movements and coordinate passing or maneuvering actions.

Vessel Lights

Vessel lights are essential for indicating a vessel’s position, direction, and activity during nighttime or low visibility. Different colors and arrangements of lights signify a vessel’s type, size, and status, helping others judge its intentions and movement.

Why These Signals Matter

Day flags, sound signals, and vessel lights are universally understood signals outlined in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS). Familiarity with them ensures that sailors can effectively interpret other vessels’ intentions and maintain safe navigation in all conditions.

This is a great tool if you are preparing for your captain’s test or to have aboard your boat when you are sailing at night.

You will be confident and knowledgeable when you encounter vessels with their identifying lights system at night.

Learn the “Rules of the Road” with these easy-to-use flashcards to ensure your safety whether you are passing a dredge or see the lights of a Tugboat towing a barge.

(Our Sailing and Boating Rules of the Road flashcards meet the United States Coast Guard criteria for Navigation rules)