alex patrikios from the australian associated press described "sea of flags" as an "upbeat anthem", while another writer from the same publication called it a "catchy tune". sophie joske from "out in perth" viewed "sea of flags" as an "inspirational dramatic pop number." mike wass from idolator stated that "the song is completely over-the-top in a eurovision-appropriate way." andrew le from "renowned for sound" gave "sea of flags" three out of five stars and noted that its "lyrics are hardly poetic, but carry a nice sentiment in lifting the spirits of listeners." le concluded that "'sea of flags' is harmless radio-friendly fluff that will certainly not extend the boundaries of pop music", but admitted that he believed it was "still a better song than some of the eurovision entries this year." for the week commencing 19 may 2014, "sea of flags" debuted and peaked at number 40 on the aria singles chart; it became mauboy's nineteenth entry on that chart.