In centuries past, before modern mechanical rudders, vessels were often steered with a large oar placed on the right side of the stern, which is the back of the boat. It originates from the Old English term "stéorbord," which refers to the steering side of a ship.
Using Starboard Side for Docking Procedures
This fixed orientation eliminates confusion that might arise from using left and right, which change depending on which way a person is facing, making starboard a consistent and critical term for navigation, communication, and docking procedures. Because this steering oar was always on the right, the right side became known as the side where the starboard helm was located, and the name has stuck ever since as the official term for the right side of any boat.
If two power-driven vessels meet head-on, each vessel is required to alter its course to starboard to pass safely on the port side. The "Rules of the Road," which are the international regulations for preventing collisions at sea, assign the right of way to the vessel on the starboard side in a crossing situation.
Using Starboard Side for Safe and Effective Docking
When you are determining port versus starboard, you always imagine yourself standing in the center of the boat, known as the midships, and facing the bow directly ahead. When maneuvering into a slip, the captain must judge the distance between the dock and the starboard side to avoid a collision.
More About Where is starboard on a boat
Looking at Where is starboard on a boat from another angle can help expand the discussion and give readers a second clear paragraph under the same section.
More perspective on Where is starboard on a boat can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
