CV Flag & Shape Scanner
2026 RTCM 13200.0 & COLREGs Compliant
Awaiting Camera Feed or Image Upload
Pro Tip: For accurate RTCM 13200.0 eVDSD processing, use the Live Scanner. Temporal signals cannot be verified from static photo uploads.
2026 Signaling Cheatsheet
eVDSD (RTCM 13200.0)
Replaces pyrotechnic flares. The mandatory visual sequence is an S-O-S pattern flashed in dual colors:
- “S”: 3 Red-Orange flashes (610-620 nm)
- “O”: 3 Cyan flashes (490-520 nm)
- “S”: 3 Red-Orange flashes
Mandatory 2026 Day Shapes
- Distress (Day): Orange flag featuring a black square situated over or under a black circle.
- Vessel Not Under Command: Two black balls in a vertical line.
- Vessel at Anchor: One black ball forward.
Scan History
Private & Local only • Data auto-deleted when you leave the page
Private & Local: Your data never leaves this device. No Backend.
Explore Our Other Maritime Tools
Expand your maritime knowledge and test your navigational skills by checking out our comprehensive suite of interactive tools designed for modern seafarers.
Free Ship Handling Simulator
Master vessel maneuvering in various conditions with our realistic physics-based simulator.
ICS Signal Flag Trainer
Practice identifying and hoisting maritime signal flags for rapid visual communication.
Maritime Semaphore Animator
Learn and decode flag semaphore signals with our interactive 3D character animations.
NavRules Compare Tool
Quickly cross-reference differences between US Inland and International navigation rules.
AI DNV RuleAgent
Navigate complex DNV maritime classification rules efficiently using an AI-powered assistant.
NavLights 3D Visualizer
Visualize vessel navigation lights and day shapes from any angle in full 3D space.
Nautical Flag Size Calculator
Determine the exact dimensions required for maritime flags based on your vessel’s size.
Signal Flag Generator
Create high-quality, custom SVG maritime signal flag combinations for your projects.
Acoustic Whistle Analyzer
Analyze and decode standard marine sound signals to interpret navigational intents.
Maritime Signal Scanner
Scan and monitor digital maritime communication signals for enhanced situational awareness.
What is the Maritime Signal Scanner?
The Maritime Signal Scanner is an interactive, browser-based educational tool designed to bridge the gap between static textbook study and the rapid-fire visual identification required on a ship’s bridge. By simulating the process of scanning and decoding maritime signal flags from various images and training scenarios, it helps users train their eyes to quickly recognize critical ICS signals.
This is an educational simulation; all training is strictly for educational purposes and features no real-time integration with your device’s camera, physical hardware, or real-world vessels.
Key Features & Benefits
Simulated Visual Decoding
Practice recognizing and translating maritime signal flags from provided educational images to build rapid visual recall.
Instant Accuracy Feedback
Receive immediate corrections and explanations when you identify a signal, drastically reducing your learning curve.
Multi-Flag Hoist Training
Go beyond single letters by scanning and deciphering complex, multi-flag hoist combinations used in standard maritime communication.
Low-Stakes Practice
Build confidence in a pressure-free, browser-based interface before facing strict visual identification tests in academy exams.
Practical & Educational Uses for a Signal Scanner
OICNW & USCG Exam Preparation
A vital resource for deck cadets and officers who need to master instant visual identification for licensing exams.
Academy Classroom Exercises
Allows instructors to project simulated flag hoists for students to “scan” and decode as a group time-trial exercise.
Recreational Boater Refresher
Helps weekend sailors quickly refresh their memory on critical warning signals (like the diver-down or distress flags) before heading out.
Naval Communications Drill
Provides a supplementary digital training ground for military personnel to practice reading visual signals without needing physical flags.
The Importance of Visual Signaling in Modern Seafaring
While modern commercial vessels rely heavily on advanced digital navigation and communication systems like AIS, ARPA, and VHF DSC, the foundational skill of visual signaling remains an absolute necessity. Relying entirely on electronics creates a vulnerability; understanding visual signals ensures a critical layer of redundancy.
The “Silent Language” of the Sea
Signal flags form the ultimate silent language of the ocean. They provide an immediate, visual broadcast of a vessel’s status, cargo, or intentions without relying on radio frequencies or electrical power. Being able to quickly scan and read these flags ensures that clear communication is maintained, even if a vessel experiences a total blackout or operates under radio silence.
Emergency and Low-Tech Scenarios
In high-stress emergency scenarios, the International Code of Signals (ICS) eliminates dangerous ambiguity. A single visual signal can universally broadcast a man overboard, a medical emergency, or a dragging anchor to ships of any nationality. Training your eyes to scan and translate these signals in a fraction of a second can be the difference between a near-miss and a disaster when electronics fail.
A Pillar of International Standardization
Visual proficiency is a fundamental requirement under international maritime law and training standards (STCW). By utilizing simulated scanning tools, educators and students help ensure that the global standard of visual communication remains sharp, fostering a universal culture of safety across all oceans.