Black Tot Day – 31 July 1970

For more than 300 years, Royal Navy sailors were issued a daily rum ration, known as the tot. By the 20th century it was usually served at midday and had become one of the Navy’s best-known traditions.

That tradition ended on 31 July 1970, a date that became known throughout the Royal Navy as Black Tot Day. The Admiralty decided that a daily rum issue was no longer appropriate in a modern Navy, particularly as ships and equipment became increasingly complex and technical.

The final tot was therefore served that day, bringing an end to a tradition dating back centuries. In many ships the occasion was marked almost like a funeral, with black armbands, mock ceremonies and plenty of dark humour.

For ex-matelots, Black Tot Day remains one of those dates that instantly connects generations of Royal Navy service — and a reminder of a tradition that disappeared as the Navy moved into the modern era.

Our Black Tot Day Flag is a full-size 150cm × 100cm flag, designed to make the artwork stand out whether displayed at home, at a reunion, in a club, workshop or outdoor space.

The flag is produced from a sturdy fabric made from 100% recycled PET bottles. It is printed on one side with approximately 95% show-through, meaning the design remains clearly visible from the reverse side as well.

Lightweight enough to fly well while remaining suitable for outdoor use, it’s a distinctive way to display a Royal Navy, ship or branch connection.

• 150cm × 100cm
• Made from 100% recycled PET bottles
• Printed on one side
• Approximately 95% show-through to the reverse
• Weather-resistant and washable
• Black Tot Day design

Created for Royal Navy veterans, their families and anyone with a connection to the Royal Navy.