By MAURIPRO Sailing Specialists · Updated June 2026
What Is the LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond and Who Needs It?
The LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond (model 72732) is a rigid black day shape designed for use aboard sailing vessels that are simultaneously using their engine — a configuration known as motorsailing. Under COLREGS Rule 25(b), a sailing vessel using its propulsion machinery, whether or not sails are set, must exhibit forward where it can best be seen a conical shape, apex downward. In many jurisdictions and vessel classes, a diamond shape satisfies this requirement when displayed correctly at the masthead or forestay.
The 72732 measures 47 3/16 inches in height by 23 5/8 inches in width (1198.9 x 599.4 mm), making it clearly visible at distance in open water conditions. It is manufactured by Lalizas, a globally recognized Greek marine safety brand whose products are stocked by safety authorities, commercial operators, and offshore cruising sailors worldwide. The rigid construction holds its shape in wind without collapsing or distorting, which is essential for a day shape to remain recognizable from another vessel's bridge.
Any sailing yacht with an auxiliary engine — whether a 30-foot coastal cruiser or a 50-foot bluewater passage maker — is required to carry and display this signal when motorsailing. Racing sailors in offshore events governed by the Offshore Special Regulations (OSR) are also required to carry the appropriate day shapes as part of safety equipment audits. The LALIZAS 72732 satisfies both cruising and racing compliance requirements.
How to Display the LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond Correctly
Placement and Hoisting
COLREGS specifies that the day shape must be displayed "forward where it can best be seen." For most sailing vessels, this means hoisting the diamond on the forestay, the inner forestay, or on a dedicated halyard at the bow. Some sailors use a short pendant clipped to the forestay with a snap shackle for quick deployment. The diamond must be visible from all horizontal directions — 360 degrees — so avoid positions where the headsail or other rigging blocks sightlines.
The LALIZAS 72732 includes attachment points suitable for halyard or lashing connection. Because it measures nearly 48 inches in its longest dimension, it presents a visually unambiguous silhouette at the distances required by COLREGS — a vessel approaching from a mile away under poor contrast conditions should still be able to identify the shape. Always hoist the day shape as soon as you start the engine, even if you intend to motorsail for only a short distance.
When to Stow and When to Display
The day shape is required only during daylight hours — between sunrise and sunset. At night, COLREGS Rule 25 requires a different set of lights (masthead steaming light, sidelights, and sternlight) instead of the day shape. Remove the diamond once the engine is shut off and you are sailing under sail power alone, or once night falls. Keeping the day shape permanently displayed creates a false signal and may cause confusion to other mariners.
LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond Specifications and Compatibility
The LALIZAS 72732 is designed to comply with international COLREGS day shape requirements across a wide range of vessel types and sizes. Its rigid construction and large format make it suitable for vessels from approximately 25 feet to 65+ feet LOA. Below is a quick reference for compatibility across common sailing vessel sizes:
| Vessel Type / Size | LOA | Compatible with LALIZAS 72732? |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal cruiser (e.g., Catalina 30) | 30 ft | Yes |
| Mid-range bluewater (e.g., Beneteau 40) | 40 ft | Yes |
| Offshore passage maker (e.g., Hallberg-Rassy 48) | 48 ft | Yes |
| Performance sloop (e.g., Swan 60) | 60 ft | Yes |
The 47 3/16 x 23 5/8 in dimensions meet the COLREGS minimum size thresholds for vessels under 20 meters (65.6 ft) LOA, which require day shapes of at least 0.6 meters (approximately 23.6 inches) in their smallest dimension. The LALIZAS 72732 exceeds this minimum, ensuring compliance for the vast majority of privately owned sailing yachts.
Why LALIZAS Is a Trusted Name in Marine Safety Equipment
Lalizas has manufactured marine safety equipment since 1982 and supplies products to naval authorities, coast guards, and commercial fleets across more than 100 countries. Their day shapes, lifebuoys, flares, and life raft accessories are tested to ISO and SOLAS standards, giving sailors confidence that a product like the 72732 will perform reliably in real conditions. Lalizas products are not generic imports — they are engineered to specific international maritime standards and carry the necessary certifications for use on vessels subject to flag state inspections.
When shopping for safety equipment at MAURIPRO, sailors benefit from Lalizas' global manufacturing consistency. The 72732 Signal Day Diamond is part of a broader LALIZAS safety range available through MAURIPRO, including lifebuoys, throwlines, and navigation light accessories. Choosing a recognized brand for day shapes and distress signals reduces the risk of equipment failure during a flag state inspection or, more critically, during an actual emergency when correct signaling can prevent a collision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Signal Day Diamonds
Can you fly with a self-inflating PFD on an airplane, and what are the TSA rules for traveling with inflatable life vests?
Yes, you can fly with a self-inflating PFD in carry-on or checked luggage, but TSA rules require that the CO2 inflation cylinder be removed and that the cylinder valve be open or the cylinder be empty before the PFD is packed. TSA allows inflatable life vests with up to two small CO2 cylinders (no larger than 4 fluid ounces / 118 mL each) in carry-on bags, provided the device is for personal use. Spare, unattached CO2 cylinders for PFDs are not permitted in carry-on baggage. Always check with your specific airline before travel, as some carriers apply stricter rules than TSA minimums. Sailors transporting safety gear between regatta venues or charter destinations should verify cylinder size and packing requirements well in advance.
Is a day diamond the same as a day cone?
No. COLREGS Rule 25 specifies a cone shape (apex downward) for motorsailing vessels. However, some national authorities and vessel categories accept a diamond as the recognized day shape for vessels under sail with engine engaged, particularly in jurisdictions that have incorporated older navigation rule standards. Check your flag state regulations and the rules of any race you are participating in to confirm which shape is required. The LALIZAS 72732 diamond format is widely accepted across multiple jurisdictions.
Where can I buy the LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond?
The LALIZAS Signal Day Signal Diamond - 47 3/16 x 23 5/8 in (1198.9 x 599.4) (72732) is available directly through MAURIPRO Sailing. MAURIPRO stocks the full range of LALIZAS safety equipment, so sailors can source day shapes, lifebuoys, and other compliance gear from a single trusted marine supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dimensions of the LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond and what size vessel is it intended for?
The LALIZAS Signal Day Signal Diamond (72732) measures 47 3/16 x 23 5/8 inches (1198.9 x 599.4 mm), making it a full-size distress signal shape designed for offshore and coastal sailing vessels. This diamond shape is the internationally recognized COLREGS signal indicating a vessel constrained by her draft or at anchor in certain conditions. MAURIPRO stocks this item for sailors requiring compliance with international maritime visibility regulations.
What COLREGS or safety regulations require sailors to carry a signal day shape like the LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond?
COLREGS Rule 28 and related inland navigation rules require vessels constrained by their draft to display a diamond shape, and Rule 30 governs day shapes for anchored vessels over 100 meters. The LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond (72732) is designed to meet these international requirements for visible daytime distress and status signaling. Sailors on offshore passages or entering regulated shipping lanes should verify their flag state's specific compliance requirements.
What material is the LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond made from, and is it durable enough for offshore sailing conditions?
The LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond (72732) is constructed from high-visibility, weather-resistant materials engineered to withstand UV exposure, saltwater, and offshore marine conditions. Lalizas is a well-established Greek maritime safety brand known for manufacturing ISO-compliant safety equipment built to rigorous durability standards. MAURIPRO recommends this signal shape for bluewater cruisers and offshore racers who need reliable, long-lasting visual signaling equipment.
How is the LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond rigged or displayed on a sailboat?
The LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond (72732) is typically hoisted in the forward part of the vessel where it is most visible, using a halyard or dedicated signal line in the rigging. At 47 3/16 inches tall, it is large enough to meet visibility requirements and can be secured with corner attachment points common to standard day shapes. Sailors should ensure the shape hangs freely without folding to maintain its recognizable diamond silhouette for other vessels.
How does the LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond compare to other day signal shapes, and do I need additional shapes to be fully COLREGS compliant?
The LALIZAS Signal Day Diamond (72732) covers the diamond-specific signaling requirements under COLREGS, but full compliance may also require a ball shape (for anchored vessels under 100m) or a cone shape (for vessels under sail using engine power). Lalizas manufactures a full range of COLREGS day shapes that can be used alongside this diamond for comprehensive visual signaling. MAURIPRO carries multiple Lalizas signal shapes, allowing sailors to build a complete, regulation-ready day signal kit.
Questions? We're Here to Help
Have questions? Chat with us! Our MAURIPRO rigging and sailing specialists are available to help you find the right solution for your boat and sailing style.
Explore our selection: LALIZAS Signal Day Signal Diamond - 47 3/16 x 23 5/8 in (1198.9 x 599.4) (72732) and related sailing gear at MAURIPRO.
