Nautical Term: Dressing ship

Definition of Dressing ship

Dressing ship refers to the display of national colors and various signal flags at all mastheads and along the entire length of the ship over the masthead. This elaborate display is typically reserved for special occasions, holidays, or formal events.

For instance, during a naval review in honor of a visiting head of state, all ships in the fleet would dress ship with their national colors and signal flags proudly displayed at all mastheads and along the ships’ length. This grand display of naval might and national pride would be a fitting tribute to the visiting dignitary and a powerful symbol of the enduring strength and unity of the naval forces of the participating nations.

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