Flag of Bermuda

This British Red Ensign features a red field with the Union Jack located in the upper hoist quadrant. Positioned in the lower fly half is the coat of arms of Bermuda, which depicts a red lion holding a shield. The shield displays a shipwreck scene amidst a blue and white sea.

The Union Jack in the canton signifies Bermuda's status as a British Overseas Territory and its long-standing ties to the United Kingdom. Within the coat of arms, the red lion represents the British Empire, while the shield it holds commemorates the 1609 wreck of the Sea Venture. This maritime disaster led to the first permanent settlement of the islands by Admiral Sir George Somers. The Latin motto often associated with the arms, Quo Fata Ferunt, translates to 'Whither the Fates Carry Us,' reflecting the accidental nature of the colony's founding.

Although the current design was officially granted by royal warrant on October 4, 1910, it has served as the territory's civil ensign since the early 20th century. Prior to this adoption, Bermuda utilized the standard British Blue Ensign common to colonial administrations. Minor modifications were made to the coat of arms in 1999 to standardize the artistic rendering of the lion and the shipwreck. This specific version remains unusual among British overseas territories for its use of a red background rather than the more common blue.