What custom is followed regarding colors ceremonies when a ship is underway?

When a ship is underway, the custom followed is that colors ceremonies, which typically involve the hoisting of the national flag and playing the national anthem, are not held. This practice is due to the operational status of the ship; when a ship is moving, it is engaged in its mission and may not be able to perform such ceremonies as they would take time and potentially compromise readiness.

Colors ceremonies are important traditions and are generally observed when a ship is at anchor or alongside a pier, where the crew can pause to honor the flag and what it represents. While at sea, the focus is maintained on the ship’s operational duties, thus the customary colors are omitted during underway operations.

Understanding this custom highlights the balance between maintaining military traditions and ensuring operational efficiency while a vessel is in motion.