An ensign of world flag shows the national colors and symbols. An ensign is generally rectangle in shape. The ratio of width and length is at 1:2 or 3:5. The flag shown in the pole must be away from the stem of the ship. It should not get in the way of the daily mechanism and activities of the ship. When there is a boom on top of the stem the ensign must be flown from the outer part of the ship’s mast, on top of the gaff of leech.
An ensign should be put up from 8am in the morning and taken down before sunset. If you will be away from the ship and won’t return before sunset, it is advisable that the flag be taken down. The ensign should not be featured at night time.
There are various ensigns around different countries all over the world. The flag of America which is the Old Glory features the stars and stripes while the US Yacht ensign shows a fouled anchor surrounded by 13 stars forming a circle.
The flag of the United Kingdom which the Union Jack features three red imposed with white crosses with a blue background. It is used by warships. A red ensign is traditionally featured by recreational boaters. The union jack is still shown in the upper left part of the red flag.
In Canada, the flag of Canada shows the famous Maple Leaf. The maple leaf is placed at the center with a white background and two red stripes on both sides. This is being used by Canadian ships.