Navigation
What does Port and starboard mean?
Port is the left side of a vessel when facing forward toward its bow; starboard is the right side. These labels stay with the boat regardless of where a person faces.
Why it matters when choosing a sailboat
The terms remove ambiguity when describing fittings, damage, berths or directions aboard. They are also used in navigation and sailing rules, but identifying a side is not the same as deciding right of way in a particular encounter.
A practical example
A water tank on the port side remains the port tank even when you turn to face aft.
A question to ask before buying
Can I identify the locations of critical fittings and understand which side a survey observation refers to?
Related sailboat terms
Put the term to work.
Compare model specifications in our research library, then check the actual boat’s configuration, records and condition. Equipment and dimensions can differ between versions of the same model.
Find models that fit your plans →