For those who are not familiar with boating terminologies, the word "starboard" may sound confusing. Many people ask whether starboard is left or right. In this article, we will discuss what starboard means and where it lies on a boat.
What is Starboard?
Starboard is a nautical term used to refer to the right side of a boat or ship when facing the front, also known as the bow. The term "starboard" originated from the Old English word "steorbord" which means the side on which the steering oar was located.
It is important to note that starboard is always the right side of a boat, regardless of which direction the boat is facing. This means that if you are standing at the back of the boat, starboard will still be on your right side.
Why is Starboard Important?
Knowing the difference between port and starboard is essential for safe navigation on the water. When communicating with other boaters or giving directions to passengers, using the correct nautical terms can prevent confusion and avoid accidents.
For example, if you are trying to pass another boat, you need to know which side to pass on. If you say "go left," the other boater may not know which direction you are referring to. However, if you say "pass on the port side," they will know exactly what you mean.
How to Remember Port and Starboard
Remembering which side is port and which is starboard can be tricky, especially for beginners. One way to remember is to use a mnemonic device.
A common mnemonic is to remember that "port" and "left" both have four letters. This means that port is always the left side of the boat when facing the bow. Therefore, starboard must be the right side.
Conclusion
Now that you know what starboard means and where it is located on a boat, you can confidently communicate with other boaters and navigate the waterways safely. Remember to always use the correct nautical terms and be aware of your surroundings when on the water.