When you're learning to sail, one of the first things you'll hear is: "That's on the port side!" or "Look starboard!" But what do these terms really mean? Let’s clear up the confusion around port vs. starboard — and why sailors never just say “left” or “right.”

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📍 1. Port vs. Starboard: The Basics

When you're facing the front (bow) of the boat:

• Port is on your left

• Starboard is on your right

These directions never change, no matter which way you're facing — unlike “left” and “right,” which depend on your personal orientation. That’s why port and starboard are used universally at sea.

✅ Example: If someone says “Vessel 20 degrees to port”, everyone on board knows exactly where to look, regardless of where they’re standing.

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💡 2. How to Remember Port and Starboard

Here are a few memory tricks:

• Port = Left = 4 letters each

• Port wine is red → Port side light is red

• Starboard is what’s left over once you’ve remembered port!

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🚨 3. Navigation Lights: Red, Green & White

To help vessels identify each other’s direction at night, boats carry navigation lights:

• Red light = Port side

• Green light = Starboard side

• White light = Seen from astern (the rear of the boat)

These lights are essential for collision avoidance and are taught in depth on RYA Competent Crew and RYA Day Skipper courses.

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🗺 4. Why Port and Starboard Matter

Using these terms keeps communication clear and consistent on board, especially in tricky conditions, at night, or during busy navigation situations. Saying “Look to starboard” is much safer than yelling “Look to the right!” when the helmsperson is facing the opposite way!