ASTORIA REGATTA
Welcome to the 2025 Astoria Regatta O
n behalf of the entire Astoria Regatta team, we extend a heartfelt welcome to each of you. As your 2025 Astoria Regatta Co-Presidents, we are honored to be part of this cherished community celebration, and we are thrilled to share the excitement of this year’s events with all of you.
Our Regatta would not be possible without the tireless efforts of our incredible volunteers, court, board members, and staff. Their dedication has transformed ideas into reality, crafting a spectacular lineup of festivities. To our sponsors— from our Premier partners Worldmark by Wyndham and the Samuel S. Johnson Foundation to our Chinook sponsors and community supporters—we express our deepest gratitude for their unwavering commitment. Their investment ensures that the Regatta continues to bring joy to generations while supporting local youth through our scholarship program.
Exciting Events Await
Wednesday, August 6
Join us for our Farewell ceremony as we honor our outgoing Queen Rosalinda Lopez Nestor and reflect on a year of exceptional service and leadership.
The festivities officially begin at the historic Liberty Theatre with the coronation of our new Queen, selected from our outstanding 2025 Court: Princess Lily Helligso of Astoria High School, Princess Chantrell Lee of Seaside High School, Princess Frances Taggart of Warrenton High School, and Princess Aubrey Harrington of Knappa High School. Each of these remarkable young women represents the best of their communities and embodies our county’s bright future.
Thursday, August 7
Experience our Astoria Family Fun Night and Astoria Kids Parade at the Barbey Center, featuring sidewalk chalk art, dance parties, and a special children’s parade that will spark imaginations across generations.
Friday, August 8
Honor our maritime heritage at the Admiral’s Reception, celebrating the courage and expertise that define our coastal community.
Michelle Murray
Co-President
Janet Grothe
Co-President
Jenni Pinkstaff
Vice President
Bekah Gustin
Secretary
Barbi England
Treasurer
Briana Smith Event Director
Tanarae Hopkins USCG Liaison, Board Member
Kami Allen Board Member
Kendrick George Board Member
Mark Winstanley Board Member
Kari Borgen
We would also like to thank our distinguished dignitaries: Astoria Regatta Admiral Captain Michael Tolley, whose heroic maritime career spans from defending against pirates to rescuing refugees; Admiral’s Aide Nate Pinkstaff, who carries forward generations of maritime tradition; and our Grand Marshal, the Astoria Fire Department, who have courageously served our community since 1876. Their remarkable service embodies the spirit of our maritime heritage.
Astoria is not just a place—it’s a community—a beautiful tapestry of resilience, creativity, and camaraderie. As we gather along the Columbia River, we celebrate our maritime heritage while strengthening the bonds that tie us together from Knappa to Cannon Beach. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a firsttime visitor, you are an integral part of this vibrant tradition that has endured for 131 years.
This year’s theme, “Hold Fast, Embrace the Tide,” invites us to navigate life’s waves with unity and enthusiasm. Like skilled mariners who secure their vessels while working with natural forces, we honor our cherished traditions while adapting to the changing currents of our times. From thrilling events on the water to lively parades and vibrant community gatherings, the 2025 Astoria Regatta reflects our readiness to honor the past while embracing the present and future.
Thank you for joining us as we continue this extraordinary tradition that has weathered 131 years of change while maintaining its essential spirit. Together, let’s “ Hold Fast, Embrace the Tide,” and make the 2025 Astoria Regatta an unforgettable adventure for all.
With warm welcomes and fair winds, Michelle Murray & Janet Grothe 2025 Astoria Regatta Co-Presidents
Saturday, August 9
Witness the spectacular Grand Land Parade winding through downtown Astoria, followed by the majestic Highwater Boat Parade on the Columbia River. Both events pay tribute to our maritime history and the enduring legacy where the Mighty Columbia meets the Pacific Ocean.
Don’t miss the AWE Family Fest at the Barbey Center, where local scientists, ecologists, and artists will share interactive educational experiences, demonstrating how our natural environment shapes our community identity.
Regatta Pin Program
Connects you to 131 years of tradition. Collect your commemorative pin at locations throughout the county. We invite you to participate wholeheartedly in Oregon’s oldest celebration in Oregon’s oldest city. Savor local flavors, capture breathtaking views, explore our pin retailers from Bebe Lew to the Fort Stevens Museum. For a complete list of pin locations, visit AstoriaRegatta.com/pins
Event schedule
Queen’s Farewell
Wednesday, August 6 | 5:30 - 6:30 PM | McTavish Room, Liberty Theater
Join us in honor of 2024 Queen Rosalinda Lopez Nestor to celebrate her service over the past year. Held in the lovely McTavish Tea Room, at the historic Liberty Theater. FREE, donations to Regatta Programs gladly accepted at the door. Sponsored by Liberty and Warrenton Fiber and Nygaard Logging, Fishhawk Fisheries.
Queen’s Coronation
Wednesday, August 6 | 7 - 8 PM | Liberty Theater
Kick off the Regatta Festival with our annual coronation ceremony. The Regatta Court will give their speeches one final time before we crown the new Regatta Queen and open the festival. Held at the historic Liberty Theater. FREE, donations to Regatta Programs gladly accepted at the door. Sponsored by Lums Auto Center and Astoria Mini Mart East & The Growlers Guys.
Astoria Family Fun Night
Thursday, August 7 | 5 - 8 PM | The Barbey Center
Bring the whole family for an evening of fun at the Barbey Center! The Kiwanis Kids Parade kicks off at 6 PM, with games, a dance party, food, a treasure hunt and more happening before and after! Free and fun for all ages—don’t miss it. Sponsored by Pacific Power and Columbia River Maritime Museum.
Astoria Kid’s Parade
Thursday, August 7 | 6 - 8 PM | The Barbey Center
Hotdogs, picnic games, face painting! Oh my! Kiddie Parade will take place at 6:30 p.m. We’ll cap the night off with a movie. There is something for everyone at this event. Sponsored by Pacific Power and Columbia River Maritime Museum
Seamen’s Memorial
Friday, August 8 | 3 -4 PM | Seamen’s Memorial Park
Join us for a solemn moment as we honor those who ply their trade on the water. We recognize the U.S. Coast Guard, Navy, commercial fishermen, river and bar pilots, as well as others involved in maritime industries. Jon Axel Englund of Astoria to be honored at Seamen’s Memorial. Sponsored by Umpqua Bank.
Admiral’s Reception
Friday, August 8 | 6-8 PM | Fort George Brewery
Raise a glass with the Regatta Association as we celebrate our Admiral Captain Michael Tolley and Admiral’s Aide, Nate Pinkstaff. This annual party is always a good time, filled with locally catered appetizers and drinks. Entry is $30 at the door, or $20 with your 2025 Regatta pin. Sponsored by Clatsop Distributing and Gimre’s Shoes.
AYC Yacht Races
Friday, August 8 • 6 - 7:30 PM | Saturday, August 8 • 1 - 3:30 PM | On the Columbia Astoria Yacht Club Regatta sailboat races are on the Columbia above the bridge on the waterfront, nearest downtown Astoria. Weather conditions and tides may make racing below the bridge near the West Mooring Basin, preferable. Sponsored by Astoria Yacht Club.
Rose Planting Ceremony
Saturday, August 9 | 9- 10 AM | The Flavel House Museum Gardens
A long-time tradition in cooperation with our friends the Royal Rosarians of Portland, the Rose Planting honors the Queen and Admiral with new additions to the Flavel House garden. Sponsored by The Flavel House and The Portland Royal Rosarians.
Astoria Regatta Fun Run
Saturday, August 9 | 11 AM- 12 PM | Astoria Regatta Festival Route
The Astoria Regatta invite you to get moving by joining the Fun Run. This 1-mile run along the Grand Land Parade route in downtown Astoria is a great way to get your steps in before enjoying the parade. You can register on the day of the event at 16th and Exchange St. in Astoria at 11:00 a.m. Sponsored by Funky Bear Crossfit.
Regatta Square
Saturday, August 9 | 11 AM- 2 PM | Astoria Regatta Festival Square
Stay busy while you wait for the Grand Land Parade to begin. In the heart of downtown, you will find food options, live music, booths, and a Kid Zone with inflatables! Event will feature music, food, free kids’ zone and health fair. Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH) is pleased to announce that it will host the Regatta Square Block Party again this year during the 2025 Astoria Regatta festival. The block party will be held at the public parking lot on 12th Street, between Duane and Exchange Streets, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9. People can enjoy the event before and after the Grand Land Parade finishes in downtown Astoria. Regatta Square keeps the fun going under the sun and will include a live DJ, free kids’ zone with inflatables, a Medix Ambulance to check out, face painting, caricatures, a BBQ family-friendly lunch for sale, and a health fair featuring your local CMH medical experts and community organizations. Presented by Columbia Memorial Hospital.
Grand Land Parade
Saturday, August 9 | 12 - 1 PM | Downtown Astoria
This signature event kicks off with a U.S. Coast Guard flyover, followed by floats, bands and cars making their way along the parade route. Watch for the Regatta court, Grand Marshals, the Admiral, Admiral’s Aide and entries from local businesses and groups. Sponsored by Worldmark. The Grand Land Parade starts westbound on Exchange Street at 16th Street, turn north on 9th Street, then turns east on Duane Street, finishing at 17th Street. Sponsored by Worldmark.
Family Fest at Regatta presented by AWE - Astoria
Saturday, August 9 | 2 - 4 PM | Barbey Maritime Center
Come to the Barbey Maritime Center after the land parade to learn about the many AWEsome organizations in Clatsop County that make this such an amazing place to live. Local scientists, ecologists, artists, dancers and more will be at the Barbey Maritime Center to tell families about their organization and how they can get involved. Tables will have fun activities for kids of all ages so come celebrate summer and Regatta with us. Please park east of the Barbey Maritime Center in the lot accessible from 22nd Street. Please do not park in the red fire lanes. Sponsored by AWE-Astoria
Search & Rescue Demo
Saturday, August 9 | 2 - 3 PM | 17th Street Pier
Unless called into action for a true emergency, the U.S. Coast Guard will treat us to a search and rescue demonstration in the Columbia River, off the 17th Street Pier. Hosted by the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Columbia River. Presented by U.S. Coast Guard.
Highwater Boat Parade
Saturday, August 9 | 5 - 6 PM | On the Columbia
The Highwater Boat Parade takes place on the Columbia River. This parade features a variety of boats including service groups, the commercial industry, and sports crafts just to name a few. Be sure to catch the Regatta Court on the Bar Pilot’s boat leading the parade. You can view the parade from many restaurants on the water as well as docks along the riverfront. Sponsored by Classic BodyWerks and Englund Marine.
ASTORIA REGATTA
For a complete event schedules, pin locations and more information, visit AstoriaRegatta.com or contact astoriaregattaassociation@gmail.com AstoriaRegatta.com
PARADE START
PARADE END
Navigating Courage
Captain Michael Tolley charts a course of service
The Astoria Regatta Festival sets sail once again, celebrating maritime heritage, community spirit, and outstanding individuals who have shaped the waters we call home. This year, we have the privilege of honoring Captain Michael Tolley as our distinguished Admiral—a Master Mariner whose extraordinary journey exemplifies courage, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives on the world’s most challenging seas. Join us as we explore the remarkable voyage of this modern maritime hero.
Captain Michael Tolley’s nautical journey began with purpose and preparation. A 1993 graduate of Maine Maritime Academy, he charted his course with the precision that would later define his legendary career. As a Naval Officer, he deployed twice overseas, where the crucible of military service forged the leadership skills and steady resolve that would serve him through decades of maritime adventures.
But it was on the world’s oceans that Captain Tolley truly found his calling. His global voyages have taken him around the world an astounding 13 times, navigating some of the planet’s most perilous waters. From commanding the historic schooner Roseway—where tradition meets seamanship—to captaining massive bulk carriers for nearly a decade, Tolley has mastered vessels of every description across every imaginable condition.
2025 ASTORIA REGATTA
2025 Astoria Regatta Admiral Capt. Michael Tolley
A distinguished Columbia River Bar Pilot and Master Mariner with over three decades of maritime expertise. We proudly honor Captain Michael Tolley as the 2025 Astoria Regatta Admiral.
Courage Under Fire - A Legacy of Heroism
Captain Tolley’s courage under pressure reads like maritime legend. While commanding the bulk carrier Harriette, he faced every captain’s nightmare: a pirate attack off the coast of Somalia. With gunfire erupting and an RPG streaking toward his vessel, Captain Tolley’s unwavering resolve and tactical brilliance successfully defended his crew against overwhelming odds. His leadership in that harrowing moment saved lives and preserved the cargo that countless communities depended upon.
The waters off West Africa would test his mettle again. As Captain of the Liberty Grace, Tolley once more confronted piracy, this time drawing upon strategic acumen honed through years of global navigation. His ability to outmaneuver threats while protecting his crew showcased the kind of maritime leadership that builds legends.
But perhaps his most profound moment of heroism came in 2014 during a critical rescue operation in the Mediterranean Sea. When 241 Syrian refugees found themselves in perilous conditions on the unforgiving waters, Captain Tolley didn’t hesitate. His decisive action and skilled seamanship transformed what could have been a maritime tragedy into a story of hope and human compassion—241 lives saved through the courage and expertise of one extraordinary mariner.
Guardian of the Columbia Bar
Since joining the Columbia River Bar Pilots in 2015, Captain Tolley has brought his worldclass expertise home to the waters that define our community. The Columbia River Bar— known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific”—demands nothing less than mastery from those who guide vessels through its treacherous currents and shifting sands. Day after day, Captain Tolley pilots ships of every size and nationality safely through these challenging waters, safeguarding Astoria’s vital maritime commerce and the crews who depend on his skill.
His work as a Bar Pilot represents more than professional excellence; it embodies the very spirit of maritime service that defines our coastal community. Every vessel he guides to safety, every crew he protects, every cargo delivery he ensures—these are the threads that weave together the economic and cultural fabric of our region.
Anchored in Community
Beyond his professional achievements, Captain Tolley is deeply rooted in the Astoria community. As a devoted husband and father, he understands that true strength comes from the bonds we build on shore as much as the skills we demonstrate at sea. His contributions to local maritime initiatives and his support for the Astoria Regatta Association’s mission demonstrate his commitment to celebrating and preserving our seafaring heritage for future generations.
Captain Tolley’s adventurous spirit, combined with his resilience and dedication to service, makes him an ideal ambassador for the 2025 Astoria Regatta. His life embodies the theme “Hold Fast, Embrace the Tide”—maintaining unwavering principles while adapting to whatever challenges the seas may present.
A Maritime Legacy
Admiral Michael Tolley represents the finest traditions of seafaring excellence—courage in crisis, skill in navigation, and compassion in service. As this year’s Regatta Admiral, he reminds us that maritime heritage isn’t just about the past; it’s about the living tradition of men and women who continue to brave the world’s waters with honor and expertise.
When you see Captain Tolley at the Astoria Regatta, you’re looking at a modern maritime hero whose courage has saved lives from the Mediterranean to the Columbia River Bar. His journey from Maine Maritime Academy to the pirate-infested waters of Somalia to our own Columbia River represents the very best of American seamanship—a true guardian of the waters and a worthy Admiral for our maritime celebration.
2025 Astoria Regatta Court
Princess Lily Helligso Junior, Astoria HS
Lily Helligso, a vibrant and accomplished student, brings her enthusiasm and dedication to the 2025 Astoria Regatta Court as Princess. A proud member of the Astoria community, Lily admires the kindness and support shared among its residents. She highlights how local businesses, from coffee shops to boutiques, foster creativity and are strengthened by community backing. This support has been crucial for Lily and her Pizazz Dance Team, helping them travel and achieve milestones such as their 2024 State Championship title, guided by coaches Emily Madsen and Maia Mahoney.
Queen Rosalinda Lopez Nestor Senior, Warrenton High School
Rosalinda Lopez Nestor, a senior at Warrenton High School, was crowned the Astoria Regatta Queen in 2024 during a coronation ceremony at the Liberty Theatre. Her journey to the crown included delivering a heartfelt speech about Barbara Roberts, Oregon’s first female governor, showcasing her admiration for strong female leaders. Rosalinda’s participation in the Regatta Court reflects her dedication to community engagement and her pride in her Latina heritage.
Beyond her role as Regatta Queen, Rosalinda cherishes family walks, storytelling, and music with her parents and older sister. She finds joy in exploring Astoria’s landmarks, beaches, and historical sites, which deepen her connection to Clatsop County. Her creative pursuits include making clay figures and painting, often shared with her family.
Princess Chantrell Lee Junior, Seaside HS
Chantrell Lee, a junior at Seaside High School, embodies curiosity, community spirit, and a love for nature as a 2025 Astoria Regatta Princess. Chantrell cherishes her close-knit family, including her twin sister Brenna, with whom she shares a love for music and outdoor adventures. From bird-watching to cooking and laughing with her parents, and engaging in crossword puzzles with her Grandpa, Chantrell deeply values the bonds that shape her life.
Queen’s Coronation
Wednesday, August 6 | 7 - 8 PM | Liberty Theater Kick off the Regatta Festival with our annual coronation ceremony. The Regatta Court will give their speeches one final time before we crown the new Regatta Queen and open the festival. Held at the historic Liberty Theater. FREE, donations to Regatta Programs gladly accepted at the door. Sponsored by Lum’s Toyota and Providence Seaside Hospital.
Princess Frances Taggart Junior, Warrenton HS
Frances Taggart, a junior at Warrenton High School, is an accomplished student and athlete with a unique family background that has shaped her dynamic personality. Despite having ten siblings through her parents’ remarriages, Frances is an only child, balancing the girly and athletic influences of her mother’s side with the outdoorsy and independent spirit of her father’s side—a blend she proudly embodies.
Princess Aubrey Harrington Junior, Knappa HS
Aubrey Harrington, a junior at Knappa High School, brings her passion for community, family, and connection to her role as a 2025 Astoria Regatta Princess. Growing up in a tight-knit family, with her mother working at the school and her father coaching the high school football team, Aubrey has always cherished the love and support of her close circle. She enjoys spending quality time with her parents and her sports-loving younger brother, whether on family trips or movie nights.
2025 Astoria Regatta Dignitaries
Capt. Michael Tolley
2025 Astoria Regatta Admiral
Captain Michael Tolley, a distinguished Columbia River Bar Pilot and Master Mariner, is proudly honored as the 2025 Astoria Regatta Admiral. With over three decades of maritime expertise, Captain Tolley’s remarkable career began with his graduation from Maine Maritime Academy in 1993. As a Naval Officer, he deployed twice overseas, honing his leadership skills in high-stakes environments. His global voyages have seen him circumnavigate the world 13 times, command the historic schooner Roseway, and captain bulk carriers for nearly a decade, navigating some of the world’s most perilous waters.
Captain Tolley’s courage under pressure is legendary. While commanding the bulk carrier Harriette, he successfully defended his crew against Somali pirates, facing gunfire and an RPG attack with unwavering resolve. Later, as Captain of the Liberty Grace, he confronted piracy off West Africa, showcasing his strategic acumen. In 2014, his heroism shone during a critical rescue operation in the Mediterranean, saving 241 Syrian refugees from perilous conditions. Since joining the Columbia River Bar Pilots in 2015, Captain Tolley has guided countless vessels through the treacherous Columbia River Bar, safeguarding Astoria’s vital maritime commerce.
A devoted husband and father, Captain Tolley is deeply rooted in the Astoria community, where he contributes his expertise to local maritime initiatives and supports the Astoria Regatta Association’s mission to celebrate the city’s seafaring heritage. His adventurous spirit, resilience, and commitment to service make him a fitting ambassador for the 2025 Astoria Regatta, embodying the pride and tradition of this historic coastal community.
Astoria Fire Department
2025 Grand Marshal
Nate Pinkstaff embodies the Pacific Northwest’s maritime spirit through generations of family tradition. Following in the wake of his grandfather Papa Pinky, he’s deeply connected to the commercial fishing and gillnetting heritage that defines coastal communities from the Columbia River to the Pacific.
His career path reflects the interconnected nature of maritime industries—from early river work to positions with Englund Marine & Industrial Supply, where he supported the gear and equipment needs of working fishermen. At Tidewater Barge Lines, he gained hands-on experience in tug operations and marine logistics, understanding how goods and people move through the region’s waterways. Nate’s background spans the full ecosystem of Pacific Northwest marine work: logging operations that feed timber to coastal mills, supply chains that keep fishing fleets operational, and the tugboat networks that connect river systems to ocean commerce. His experience represents the practical knowledge of someone who understands how these industries support each other and the communities they serve.
Whether working directly on the water or supporting those who do, Nate brings the perspective of someone whose livelihood is tied to the rhythms of tide, season, and the enduring strength of maritime tradition.
The Astoria Fire Department, a cornerstone of community safety since its establishment in 1876, proudly serves as a 2025 Astoria Regatta Dignitary. With a rich history spanning nearly 150 years, the department has grown from its early days of hand-pulled and horse-drawn fire engines to a modern, professional force dedicated to protecting Astoria’s residents and visitors. The department’s legacy is preserved at the Uppertown Firefighter’s Museum, housed in the historic Astoria Fire House No. 2, which showcases firefighting equipment from 1879 to 1963 and stands as a testament to the bravery of Astoria’s firefighters.
Today, the Astoria Fire Department operates under the steadfast leadership of Fire Chief Dan Crutchfield, who has served the community with distinction, ensuring the department’s readiness for emergencies ranging from structure fires to medical calls. Alongside him, Deputy Chief of Training and Operations Terry Corbit oversees the department’s training programs and operational excellence, maintaining a team of skilled career firefighters and volunteers. Stationed at 555 30th Street, the department is equipped with state-of-the-art apparatus and facilities, reflecting its commitment to public safety and community service.
The Astoria Fire Department is deeply woven into the fabric of the community, participating in local events and fostering strong ties with organizations like the Astoria Regatta Association. Honored by the Astoria Regatta as a 2025 Regatta Dignitary, the department continues to uphold its tradition of courage, service, and pride in safeguarding the city’s historic charm and vibrant future.
Nate Pinkstaff
2025 Admiral’s Aide
Commemorative Regatta Pin
Hold Fast, Embrace the Tide
An annual tradition. Pins are $10 each. Pin purchases support programming and help the Astoria Regatta Association continue to provide the events surrounding the Astoria Regatta Festival. Pin holders also receive discounts and specials at some retailers, and reduced admission to ticketed Regatta events.
For a list of places to purchase your 2025 Commemorative Regatta Pin go to: AstoriaRegatta.com/pins
A limited quantity of pins from past years are
AstoriaRegatta.com for pin availability
Astoria Regatta History
This time-honored family tradition is the oldest celebration in Astoria, and one of the oldest festivals west of the Rockies.
Celebrating Exceptional Maritime History
Step back in time to 1894 and imagine the bustling waterfront of Astoria, Oregon. Salted fish-laden boats were returning from Alaska, and the community was ready to celebrate with the Astoria Regatta - a time-honored family tradition that has become the oldest celebration in Oregon’s oldest city and one of the oldest festivals in the West.
The Regatta’s origins began as a casual remark between two Astorians and quickly blossomed into one of the premier boat races on the West Coast. As Astoria grew into a cultural hodgepodge of Native Americans, Scandinavians, Chinese, and a polyglot of American Europeans, the Regatta became a thriving downtown event featuring elaborate festivities on wooden piers, a boat parade, and a land parade.
However, like many things, the Regatta faced challenges, including the suspension of celebrations during World War I and after a devastating fire in 1921. While it was reborn in 1931, it was again suspended during World War II.
In 1948, the Regatta roared back to life with boat races and a salmon derby that drew thousands of sport fishermen to the Columbia River. The event awarded cash prizes for the largest fish caught during the three-day derby. Though curtailed in the late 1960s due to Oregon Fish & Wildlife regulations, the Regatta remains a cherished family tradition.
Astoria’s history is indelibly tied to the Columbia River, with a rich maritime past dating back to the 1700s. From Native Americans and explorers to modern-day cargo ships and barges, the Columbia River remains one of the world’s great byways. Today, Astoria’s waterfront is still a hub of activity, perpetuating its proud history as a vital port town. Come join us and be part of this colorful Regatta and historic tradition.
International maritime signal flags
Coded flags signify each letter of the alphabet, as well as 10 numeral pennants and a few repeater flags. Ships can send different messages to each other depending on the flags’ design or placement alongside other pennants.
Before radio or other electronic communication, sailors used a code of brightly colored flags to communicate with each other from afar.
Each flag is intentionally designed with a set of colors that can be easily seen at sea. Signal flag codes are created in red, blue, yellow, black and white. They typically have stark contrasts when colors are placed alongside each other on the same pennant.
Using solely visual communication had its benefits, as it was a silent form of communication and could also be kept flying in the air for long periods of time.
When these technologies began to replace signal flags, sailors began using them to decorate their ships for special occasions and holidays. International signal flags can sometimes still be seen in high traffic shipping lanes. Their designs remain a vibrant part of maritime culture.
Regatta fun
Can you decipher this message using the nautical signal flag information above?
