In Texas, vessels must remain at least 100 feet away from diver down flags when operating. This distance is intended to protect divers in the water and ensure their safety while they are submerged. Operators should always be vigilant and respectful of these safety measures to avoid accidents.
In Florida, vessels must travel at no wake speed when within 300 feet of a diver-down flag when operating in open water. This law is designed to protect divers from potential hazards posed by boats. The diver-down flag signals that divers are in the water, and maintaining a safe distance helps ensure their safety.
remain close to the diver down flag
remain close to the diver down flag
remain close to the diver down flag
100'
100 ft
Jacques Cousteau used a flag with a golden "t" on a blue background, known as the "diver down" flag. This flag indicates that there is a diver submerged in the area, serving as a warning to other vessels to proceed with caution.
This is a flag to indicate to all boaters that a free diver is operating underwater in the area
50 yards or 150 feet
50 yards or 150 feet
In open water, vessels are generally required to stay at least 100 feet (approximately 30 meters) away from a diver down flag. This distance helps ensure the safety of divers by minimizing the risk of collisions. However, it's essential for boat operators to be aware of local regulations, as distances may vary by region. Always exercise caution and be vigilant when navigating in areas where divers are present.
A diver down flag, or scuba flag, is a flag used on the water to indicate that there is a diver below. Two styles of flag are in use. Internationally, the code flag alfa/alpha, which is white and blue, is used to signal that the vessel has a diver down and other vessels should keep well clear at slow speed. In North America it is conventionally red with a white stripe from the upper left corner to the lower right corner.