What does a white flag displayed from a boat typically indicate?

A white flag displayed from a boat typically indicates that the boat is disabled. This is a recognized signal on the water that alerts other boaters to the situation, signifying that the vessel may require assistance. When other boat operators see a white flag, they understand the boat is not operational and may be in need of help to return to safety or to resolve an issue.

In contrast, other options such as the boat being for sale, engaged in fishing, or not to be disturbed do not correspond to the established maritime signaling conventions associated with a white flag. For instance, boats for sale typically wouldn't use a flag, while different colors or flags are designated specifically for various activities like fishing or indicating a desire for privacy. Thus, understanding the meaning of the white flag is crucial for safe navigation and providing appropriate assistance when needed.