"Port" and "starboard" are the sailor's words for the left and right sides of a boat. Unlike left and right, they never change – no matter which way you face – which is exactly why they matter at sea.
What do port and starboard mean?
Port is the left-hand side of the vessel when you face the bow (front). Starboard is the right-hand side. At night, a red light marks port and a green light marks starboard.
How to remember port and starboard
An easy trick: "port" and "left" both have four letters. And port wine is red – just like the port navigation light. Once it clicks, you never forget it.
Why do these terms exist?
They remove any confusion: left and right depend on which way a crew member faces, but port and starboard are fixed to the boat itself – essential for clear, safe commands.
Frequently asked questions
Which side is port – left or right?
Port is the left side when you face forward (toward the bow).
What colour is the starboard light?
Green. Port is marked with a red light.
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