Click any flag to see its name, meaning, and signal definition. There are 26 alphabet flags (A–Z), each with a unique design and color pattern.
Flag Identification Quiz
Can you identify the maritime signal flags? Test your knowledge with timed rounds.
Score: 0Round: 1/10Streak: 0
Encode to Flags
Type a message and watch it convert into maritime signal flags.
Decode Flag Messages
Select flags to build a message, or try one of the preset signals below.
Build Your Message
About Flaghoist
Why this project?
The International Code of Signals is a 200-year-old communication system used by ships worldwide. Each letter of the alphabet is represented by a uniquely designed colored flag. Despite its rich history and global importance, there are very few free, interactive tools for learning or practicing these flags. This project fills that gap with a visual reference, quiz modes, and a flag encoder/decoder.
What is it?
Flaghoist is an interactive learning tool for the International Maritime Signal Flag alphabet. It features a complete visual reference of all 26 letter flags, two quiz modes (identify the flag or identify the meaning), a text-to-flags encoder, and a flag-to-text decoder with preset emergency signals.
How does it work?
Each flag is drawn using inline SVG paths and colors matching the International Code of Signals specifications. The quiz engine randomly selects flags and presents multiple-choice options. The encoder maps typed characters to their flag representations in real time. The decoder lets users click flags to build messages and instantly see the decoded text, including special single-letter signal meanings for common flags.
How to use it
Reference tab: Browse all 26 flags. Click any flag to see its name, phonetic spelling word, and maritime signal meaning.
Quiz tab: Choose between identifying flags by letter or by meaning. Start a 10-round quiz and track your score and streak.
Encode tab: Type a message and see it rendered as signal flags in real time. Toggle uppercase mode.
Decode tab: Click letter buttons to build a flag message, or try preset signals like "Man Overboard" or "Need Help." See the decoded text and special meanings.