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Port Vs. Starboard: What Side of the Ship Is Best?

Last updated: March 6th, 2023

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When you’re picking your stateroom for an upcoming cruise, you might be wondering whether the port vs. starboard side of the ship is best to stay on. Your decision will depend on a variety of factors, from your stateroom type to your cruise itinerary . Here are helpful tips for choosing which side of the ship will suit you best.

What’s the difference between port and starboard?

Simply put, port is the left side of the ship and starboard is the right side of the ship.

This lingo emerged around the 16th century, as colonization of the New World boomed. Port and starboard were adapted from Old English, specifically in the maritime trading industry.

While terms like “left” and “right” can change based on your own personal perspective, port side and starboard side remain constant, even if your perceived orientation changes. This minimizes confusion for anyone navigating any kind of vessel, including a cruise ship.

Read:  Forward vs. Aft of a Ship

What's the best side of a cruise ship to stay on?

Choosing the best stateroom for your ideal getaway is understandably an important step in the planning process. Luckily, you’ll see incredible views during your cruise whether you’re starboard or port side.

You can choose which side you want to stay on based on your unique itinerary and route.  On some cruises, like through the Panama Canal, you’ll experience breathtaking views from both sides. If you’re planning a Western Mediterranean cruise , take a look at the departure port and work out which direction your ship will sail.

Other itineraries double back to disembark at the original departure port, so you’ll enjoy views from both directions. These are called closed-loop cruises or roundtrip sailings.

The stateroom you choose depends on what you most want to see. Water lovers may be content to look out at the peaceful ocean waves from their stateroom. Some travelers prefer land views, so they can sail up to breathtaking cityscapes or rugged mountain peaks in the distance.

What’s the best side to stay on for an Alaska cruise?

While a cruise is known as the best way to see Alaska , choosing the perfect side to stay on depends on the direction that your ship is traveling in. Some Alaska itineraries are unique in that they tend to focus on one specific geographic direction; for example, Celebrity’s Alaska itineraries include Northbound and Southbound sailings that only travel in that direction.

Northbound Alaska cruises sail up the coastline through the Inside Passage and along Hubbard Glacier, so your best view of Alaska’s scenic landmasses are likely on the starboard side of the ship.

Southbound Alaska cruises are the opposite. They sail down the coast, so the port side of the ship will face the coastline and the starboard side will face the Gulf of Alaska.

Of course, your cruise ship will rotate a complete 360 degrees at some of the cruising ports like Dawes Glacier and Hubbard Glacier, so you can enjoy incredible views no matter where you’re staying on the ship. Don’t forget that while you’re en route to other destinations, the view from the open sea remains the same no matter what side of the ship you’re on. Plus, you can view Alaska’s majestic glaciers from any of the ship’s viewing decks.

Which side is best for sunrises and sunsets?

Part of the magic of setting sail on a cruise is the sunrises and sunsets you’ll see each day of your vacation. Many travelers choose staterooms with verandas so they can sip coffee from their stateroom early in the morning, or enjoy a golden-hour cocktail as the day wanes.

Keep in mind that the sun always rises in the east and sets in the west. Once you know what direction your itinerary is sailing in, that can impact whether you stick to the starboard side or port side on your vacation.

Here’s the general advice for seeing sunrises and sunsets on a cruise:

• Headed north or west? Choose a port side stateroom for sunsets. Go with starboard for sunrises.
• Headed south or east? Go port side for sunrises and starboard for the sunset.

Choosing a higher deck tends to come with more sweeping views, while some prefer lower cabins midship for greater stability from the natural sway of the ship. Even if you prefer an interior-facing stateroom or one with a window instead, you’ll still have your pick of onboard venues to watch the days wax and wane.

Watch the sun come up from the sweeping windows of Cafe al Bacio with a cappuccino in hand. Relax on the lounge chairs of an upper-level pool deck as the sun fades. Enjoy one-of-a-kind venues on your ship, like a sunset dinner on the cantilevered Magic Carpet on Celebrity Edge , which transforms into new experiences depending on which deck it’s stationed on.

If watching the sunset every evening is on your bucket list, make sure your chosen dinner time doesn’t conflict with the hour that the sun dips below the horizon. Your daily copy of Celebrity Today will list sunset and sunrise times so you won’t miss out. You can always choose to dine in your stateroom so you get a front-row view every night.

Read: What Deck Is Best on a Cruise Ship?

What side do ships dock on?

Ships can dock on either port or starboard side, depending on the layout of the port itself, the direction you are sailing in, and individual government regulations about how cruise ships can be arranged on a pier. It’s also often at the discretion of the captain to choose how to position the ship in port.

No matter what lingo you use while you’re sailing, remember these wise words of Celebrity Edge Captain Kate McCue: “Whatever you do, don’t call it a boat.”

Now that you know a few things about the difference between starboard vs. port side, you’re ready to take the next step in your cruise vacation planning. Browse cruise itineraries on our website.

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Starboard Cruise Services unveils ‘first-at-sea’ retail offer onboard Celebrity Beyond

INTERNATIONAL. LVMH-owned cruise retailer Starboard Cruise Services has unveiled its ‘first at sea’ retail offer onboard the new Celebrity Beyond vessel.

Celebrity Beyond is the latest ship in the Celebrity Cruises Edge series. It is embarking on its maiden voyage to Western Europe on 27 April from Southampton, UK. [Stay tuned for our on location coverage of the sailing].

Starboard Cruise Services’ onboard retail offer was designed as an ‘immersive lifestyle shopping experience’ and features several new luxury concepts and first-at-sea brands.

The retail space covers 8,966sq ft across two decks. It is divided into five areas, with luxury boutiques on Deck 5 and lifestyle, watches and jewellery and multi-category shops on Deck 4. Each retail zone offers a curated assortment of fashion, accessories, watches & jewellery, wines and spirits, beauty and destination-specific products.

Starboard Cruise Services President and CEO Lisa Bauer commented, “We’re thrilled to partner with Celebrity once again for the launch of the third ship in the revolutionary Edge Series. Onboard, guests will find a thoughtfully-curated collection of upscale and sustainable products, first-at-sea concepts and iconic heritage brands that contribute to the guests’ transformative and stylish retail experience.”

Celebrity Cruises Hotel Operations Senior Vice President Brian Abel added, “Our collaboration with Starboard has cultivated long-term partnerships with the world’s most sought-after lifestyle brands and crafted immersive luxury experiences that align perfectly with our commitment and focus on destination, inclusivity and sustainability.”

First-at-Sea

British fashion house Stella McCartney is making its cruise debut onboard Celebrity Beyond . The sustainable luxury brand will offer its fashion, footwear handbag and sunglasses collections onboard.

Wellness-focused lifestyle brand Goop is also making its on-sea debut with Starboard. The brand was founded by Gwyneth Paltrow, Celebrity Cruises’ Wellbeing Advisor. The Goop store offers a range of beauty and wellbeing products from its Goopglow Skincare and Goopgenes collections.

Other luxury brands include Italian fashion house Marni, the world’s largest goat-milk skincare brand Beekman 1802 and clean sun care brand Supergoop.

Celebrity Beyond is also the first ship to offer NORQAIN, an independent, family-owned Swiss watch company that offers contemporary time peices.

Local Flavour

Starboard’s destination-focused fashion offer brings the spirit of Celebrity Beyond’s Mediterranean itineraries to life. Sustainable Spanish footwear brand Respoke uses repurposed silk scarves to create colourful shoes; while Astenseda offers Spanish silk scarves decorated with vibrant hand-painted designs.

Italian brand The Bridge, French jewellery brand Gas Bijoux and Greek natural brand Rizes Crete are other notable brand highlights.

An Immersive Luxury Offer

Deck 5, coined the ‘Luxury Avenue’, houses several luxury boutiques from Montblanc, Bvlgari and watch brands from Richemont. The Montblanc store offers the brand’s watches, leather goods and writing instruments; while Bvlgari’s standalone store offers the Roman luxury house’s jewellery watches and accessories lines. Richemont’s presence, the company’s first luxury watch boutique at sea, houses its Cartier, IWC and Panerai brands.

A conscious roster

Starboard’s offer also includes several sustainable brands, in line with Celebrity Cruises’ own sustainable commitments.

Fashion-inclusive brand Summersalt offers ethically-made resort wear for a wide range of sizes; while lifestyle brand 4Ocean donates a portion of sales to support beach and ocean clean-up initiatives globally. The brand, which is exclusively available with Starboard, has already cleaned up 25,000 pounds of plastic waste from global waterways

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Port vs Starboard: Which Side Is Better on a Cruise?

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: July 16, 2021  - Last updated: June 27, 2022

When you’re choosing a cabin for your cruise vacation, you might wonder which side of the ship has the best views. Is there really a difference between the port vs. starboard side?

Find out which side of a cruise ship is the best side to book if you’d like to enjoy peaceful sunrises or stunning sunsets from your stateroom. Make sure you read to the end to learn some easy tricks to remember which side is starboard and which side is port!

Port vs. starboard: what’s the difference?

As you’re facing forward on a ship, toward the bow, the port side of the ship will be on your left and starboard will be on your right.

The term starboard comes from the Old English  steorbord , meaning the side on which the ship is steered. Before ships had central rudders, a steering oar was mounted on the right side of the stern because most people are right-handed.

With the steering oar on the right side of the ship, it made more sense to tie up at the port on the left side. So the left side of the ship became known as the port side.

But with today’s modern ships, why do we still use these old terms? Why can’t we just use left and right to refer to the sides of a ship?

When we think of left and right, it’s usually from our own perspective. If you turn around 180°, suddenly what was on your right is now on your left!

When navigating a ship, it’s important that all of the crew are on the same page with which side of the ship is which. Port and starboard never change, regardless of which direction you’re facing.

Which side of a cruise ship is better?

There’s nothing inherently better about either the port side or the starboard side of a cruise ship. But if you’re sailing in a balcony or veranda stateroom, you might want to choose to stay on a specific side of the ship based on the direction of your itinerary.

You may also like: The 10 Worst Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Which side of a cruise ship is better for sunrise and sunset?

One of the perks of sailing in a balcony cabin is having that private outdoor space to enjoy beautiful ocean views. Like many cruisers, I enjoy just sitting in peaceful silence watching the sunrise over the water in the morning. In the evening, there’s nothing more relaxing than sitting on the balcony with a cocktail to enjoy a gorgeous sunset.

If you want to make sure you’ll be able to enjoy sunrises or sunsets from your balcony, take a look at the map of your cruise’s itinerary. Remember that no matter where in the world you’re cruising, the sun will always rise in the east and set in the west.

For a closed-loop cruise that begins and ends at the same port, your ship will turn around during the voyage. For part of the itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to see sunrises from your balcony. During the other part of the cruise you’ll be able to enjoy the sunsets.

The image below is an example of a closed-loop cruise in the Caribbean, round trip from Fort Lauderdale. Following the arrows, you can see that the ship starts out traveling southeast until it reaches St. Kitts. At that point it turns around 180° and sails northwest, back toward Florida.

Passengers on this cruise sailing on the port side of the ship will enjoy sunrises from their balcony during the first half of the itinerary, and will see the sunset on the way home.

But those with starboard cabins will have sunsets for the first half of the cruise, and sunrises for the final few days.

In general, when the ship is heading north or west, the port side will get the sunsets and starboard will have the sunrises. When the ship is headed south or east you’ll have the opposite—port will see sunrises and starboard will have sunsets.

But if you find yourself on the wrong side of the ship for the prettiest view, don’t worry! You’ll always be able to find a spot to sit and enjoy it on a public deck away from the busy areas of the ship.

Should you pick a port or starboard cabin for a one-way cruise, like in Alaska?

If your cruise is one-way, starting at one port and finishing in another, you may want to consider more carefully whether you want your stateroom to be on the port or starboard side.

Many Alaska cruises are one-way, either northbound or southbound. For northbound Alaska cruises, port side cabins will have a sunset view, and starboard cabins will see the sunrise. For southbound cruises, the opposite is true.

Or maybe you’re planning a river cruise and you’re less concerned about sunsets—you’d like to have the best views from your balcony of the picturesque towns and cities you’ll be passing. You’ll see plenty of gorgeous scenery on either side of the ship—but you can always consult your itinerary map to see if the views you’re interested in will be on the port or the starboard side.

Thankfully river cruise ships are much smaller than the ocean-going megaships, so it’s always just a quick walk to the top deck for a panoramic view of everything.

Is port or starboard better when the ship is docked?

When a cruise ship is docked at a port, one side of the ship sometimes has a better view than the other. In a busy port, you might step out on your balcony to discover the only view you have is the side of a neighboring ship—and its passengers on their own balconies!

Unfortunately, when you book a cruise it’s nearly impossible to determine which direction your balcony will be facing when your ship docks at various ports. It can depend on the layout of the port, how many other ships are already there, and what direction the ship is sailing in.

Sometimes governmental regulations specify how ships need to be arranged at a certain port. At other ports, it’s up to the captain to choose how they want to position their ship.

Of course, some ports are tender ports, and your ship will drop anchor in the harbor. Your balcony could be facing in any direction at a tender port, but you’ll never be too close to another ship or be facing right onto a noisy pier.

Learn more: Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise

Does the acronym POSH really hold true?

You may have heard that the word posh, meaning fancy or luxurious, comes from an old term used by passengers on steamships and ocean liners. The story goes that you’d have a better view on a round-trip voyage by booking a port stateroom on the first part of the trip, and a starboard cabin on the return— P ort O ut, S tarboard H ome.

Per the story, it was more expensive to book these coveted staterooms, and wealthy passengers would have their tickets stamped with the acronym POSH to show that they had paid for the best rooms.

Although this tale has been passed around for decades (it even makes an appearance in the classic children’s film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang , when Grandpa Potts sings about his posh method of travel ), there’s zero evidence that it’s true. (The fact-checkers at Snopes actually debunked the POSH story in 2010.)

But even if the word posh didn’t come from “port out, starboard home”, you might be wondering if the legend remains because there’s some truth to it.

Not really! Although in some situations it can be true—let’s say you’re doing a transatlantic cruise from your home in Florida to a European port, and back home again. You’d get better sunset views if you used the POSH theory.

But if home for you is the UK, you’d do best by booking starboard out and port home. The “best side” of the ship just depends on the direction you’re sailing.

How to remember port vs. starboard

If you have a hard time remembering the difference between port and starboard, you’re not alone! There are several tricks that people use to remember.

One way is that starboard has more “R”s in the word than port does, so starboard means R ight.

Another trick is to think about how close the first letters of port and starboard are in the alphabet to the first letters of left and right. The P in port is closer to the L in left ( L M N O P ). The S in starboard is closer to the R in right ( R S )

I find that the easiest way to remember port vs. starboard is that both “port” and “left” contain four letters. But use whichever method works best for you!

One of my readers, Candice, submitted a helpful tip to remember that port equals left, courtesy of her husband. He uses the phrase “Is there any port wine left ?” to remember that port equals left! Submit your best tip in the comments!

Lots of people have trouble remembering port and starboard. Have you ever heard the story about the old sea captain?

Once upon a time, there was a famous sea captain. For years he guided his ships all over the world. Nothing got the best of him—not stormy seas or pirate attacks. The captain was admired by his crew and fellow captains alike.

However, there was something strange about this captain. Each morning he had an unusual ritual. He would open a small safe in his quarters and take out an envelope with a single piece of paper inside. He would stare intently at the paper for a few minutes, then lock it back up. Then he would go about his daily duties.

This went on for years, and his crew became very curious. What was on that paper? A treasure map? A letter from a long-lost love? Everyone from the officers to the deckhands had a theory about the contents of the strange envelope.

One day the captain died at sea. After laying his leader’s body to rest, the first mate led the entire crew into the captain’s quarters. He opened the safe, took out the envelope, and removed the paper inside. Unfolding the paper, he suddenly went very pale.

The first mate slowly turned around and showed the paper to the others. Four words were written on the paper.

“Port Left, Starboard Right”

Want more cruise jokes? Check out 10 Funniest Cruise Jokes That Will Make You Laugh

Do you have a preference for port vs starboard on certain cruises? Let me know in the comments below!

Liked this post? Pin it for later!

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Monday 7th of August 2023

Loved your article! I've cruised many times and never considered which side of the ship is best. I'm going on a NW Passage cruise from Greenland to Nome and which like to know which side of the ship you think is better for viewing sites and wildlife. Thanks

Tuesday 8th of August 2023

Hi Iris, I'm glad you enjoyed my article! I've never done a Northwest Passage cruise, but if I was booking one from Greenland to Alaska I'd most likely choose a balcony cabin on the port side of the ship. I only say this because after you pass Banks Island, the land will only be on that side until just before you reach Nome. Hope this helps, and if any other readers have done the NW passage, please feel free to chime in :) Happy cruising!

Ashlee Fechino

Monday 9th of August 2021

Awesome tips! We have never been on a cruise and would never even thought to consider which side is better - port or starboard based on your route. I learned something new today and had fun reading this article. Thanks for the share!

Candice Horn

Friday 24th of June 2022

@Carrie Ann, I thought you and your readers might enjoy this. My husband said he learned how to remember “port means left” by asking, “Is there any more port wine left?”😉🤣🤣🤣

Wednesday 11th of August 2021

Hi Ashlee, I'm happy I could explain the difference between port vs starboard. I hope it's helpful when you book your first cruise!

simplyjolayne

Sunday 8th of August 2021

A great clarification post. And I use the same memory suggestions to remember port and starboard.

I'm glad you enjoyed reading my post! Thanks for stopping by :)

Saturday 7th of August 2021

So interesting, I never really thought about which side to get a cabin on. But what you say is true, no matter where your room is, you can always find a perfect place on deck for great views.

Hi Megan, I think picking port vs. starboard really only matters if you're planning to spend lots of time on your balcony. I'm always out on deck too, so there are amazing views everywhere :D

I've actually always wondered this so I really enjoyed reading your explanation and tips! It's good to know for when I plan my first cruise.

Hi Krista, thanks so much for reading, and have fun planning your first cruise!!

Starboard Cruise Services, Carnival Cruise Line Extend Retail Partnership

• September 22, 2022

Starboard Cruise Services and Carnival Cruise Line have announced the extension of their long-standing retail partnership for five more years, according to a press release.

In addition to introducing Starboard as the chosen retail partner for Carnival’s new Carnival Celebration, the partnership extension covers Starboard’s current fleet of nine Carnival ships, according to Starboard Cruise Services.

“Our extensive and successful partnership with Carnival Cruise Line uniquely positions us to build upon our track record of keeping families at the center of our retail offerings and bringing to life fun retail vacation experiences,” commented Lisa Bauer, president and chief executive officer, Starboard.

Starboard’s contributions to Carnival’s shopping options include showcasing recognized LVMH brands, exclusive first-at-sea collection offerings, innovative retail concepts, and rich market insights, as Starboard highlights.

“Our dedicated account team of industry experts is excited to continue taking Carnival’s memorable vacation retail concepts to the next level with new offerings and a revamped commercial model,” added Bauer.

Since joining forces in 1992, Starboard and Carnival have been inviting guests to “fun” shopping experiences onboard, and they continue to deliver custom-designed merchandise to sea. Starboard offers Carnival guests a plethora of shopping options onboard the Carnival Dream, Freedom, Horizon, Legend, Magic, Miracle, Pride, Sunrise, and Sunshine, ranging from socially-responsible accessories to vintage luxury items, as well as an extensive list of Carnival-branded products.

“As retailers, we saw more opportunity to really kick it up a notch on Carnival Celebration, so we’re excited to see how our guests love our new offerings as much as our classics,” said Jeremy Schiller, vice president of retail operations, Carnival Cruise Line.

When the Carnival Celebration debuts later this year, guests can expect to shop first-at-sea brand collectibles, destination-inspired merchandise, and the biggest logo selection offered across Carnival’s fleet.

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Port vs. Starboard: Which Side Is Better on a Cruise Ship?

Aaron is a freelance contributor to the travel team at NerdWallet. He has been a credit card and travel rewards enthusiast since applying for his first credit card the day he turned 18. While a student at Iowa State University, Aaron combined his knowledge of credit card rewards with a resale business to help pay his way through college. After finishing a Master of Business Administration at the University of Michigan, Aaron used points and miles to travel for six months across five continents, including a month traveling overland through Russia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and China on the Trans-Siberian Railway Network.

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Choosing your cabin on a cruise can present a dizzying array of choices. Interior, ocean view or balcony? Low or high cabin? Forward or aft? What service level do you want? And each option comes with its own price point.

One of these decisions is whether to book a stateroom on the port side versus starboard side of the cruise ship.

If you have an interior room, this won’t matter much, but even in ocean-view rooms with only a window view, your choice can make a huge difference in your experience.

Here’s how to understand what is port side versus starboard side of a cruise ship and decide which is the right cabin for you.

What is port vs. starboard side?

For avid cruisers, port and starboard may be as natural as saying “left” and “right.”

But if port sounds like an after-dinner drink and starboard is what you feel after you’ve had too much port, here’s a quick primer.

Port and starboard are terms for direction relative to the front of the ship. When facing the front of the ship, the port side is on your left and the starboard side is on the right.

The terms come from Old English and how boats were configured in the early days of boating. Port and starboard are on the same sides of the ship, regardless of your orientation. If you face the rear (aft) of the ship, port is on your right and starboard is on your left.

» Learn more: The best cruise insurance

When does the choice matter?

Your choice of the starboard or the port side of a cruise ship may not matter if you select an interior room or have a lower stateroom with only a small window. Typically, your choice of ship side will start to matter if you opt for a higher room offering a balcony.

Some cruises offer an equal experience for those on the port side and travelers on the starboard side. If your cruise is a closed-loop or a round-trip beginning and ending at the same port, your cruise is likely to be equally scenic on the port or starboard side. You may just see different things at different parts of your journey.

The same is true if you are cruising across the open ocean. Your view of the ocean will be similar on both sides.

» Learn more: How to earn and redeem points on cruises

Ensuring spectacular coastal views

If it’s majestic coastal scenery you are after, consider booking the side that will face the direction of the coast for the majority of your trip.

Some captains will turn the ship around in particularly scenic locations like Glacier Bay in Alaska or Napali Coast in Hawaii so that all passengers can enjoy some views. But if you are cruising along the coast, one side of the ship will likely offer better views.

Whether the starboard versus port side of your cruise ship is more desirable depends on the travel direction and route.

For example, cruising from Vancouver, B.C., to Whittier, Alaska, northbound, you might prefer a starboard side room to get majestic views of the Canadian and Alaskan coastlines. Southbound cruisers will want to opt for a port-side room for the same views.

» Learn more: The best Alaska cruises

Here comes the sun

You may also prefer the port versus the starboard side of your cruise ship based on where the sun is.

If soaking up every warm ray of sunshine is your priority, a room facing the equator on an east-west cruise will provide the best sunshine all day long. In the Northern Hemisphere, book the starboard side of an eastbound cruise and the port side of a westbound cruise.

On the other hand, if you are sensitive to the sun, or want to ensure that your cabin remains cool, consider booking on the side of the ship that is likely to face the nearest pole.

On an east-west cruise in the Northern Hemisphere, you will get the most protection from the sun if you book the port side of an eastbound cruise or the starboard side of a westbound cruise.

If you’re cruising in the Southern Hemisphere, the north-facing rooms will enjoy the most sun, so take the recommendations above and swap the sides. Eastbound cruises get the most sun on the port side; westbound on the starboard side.

Watching a sunset over the ocean or seeing the sun slip behind distant islands can also be a reason for a side preference.

To catch sunsets, you’ll want to be on the port side on northbound cruises and starboard on southbound cruises.

If seeing the sunset from your cruise is a priority, ensure that your dinner time doesn't conflict with the sunset. Cruise operators will often publish the sunrise and sunset times along your route. And dining in your stateroom is an option if you want to take advantage of the view.

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Embarking and disembarking

Another consideration is the view you get when your ship is in port. But which side offers a better view is relatively unpredictable because cruise ships can dock on either side of the ship.

The direction a ship docks depends on port configuration, direction of travel, regulations and captain discretion. Even if you painstakingly research which ports you will visit, basing your cabin selection solely on this is unlikely to pay off with a great view.

The views from most ports aren't typically spectacular and you’re probably going to spend most of the time in port on shore exploring. And at a larger busy port, any view is likely to be blocked by other cruise ships.

» Learn more: What’s the best deck on a cruise ship?

The bottom line

There is no one side of a cruise ship that is always “the best.” Whether a cruise ship's port versus starboard side is better for you on a given itinerary will be a personal calculation based on preferences, route and what you want to see.

The best way to determine the best side to book is to examine the planned route, consider your preferences for scenery and sunshine, and book the side likely to give you the experience you value most.

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Port Side & Starboard Side- Whats the Difference?

By Kenosha Cruiser , May 9, 2012 in Ask a Cruise Question

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Kenosha Cruiser

I'm a bit confused on this, the even room numbers are port side and the odd room numbers are starboard side. I use to think the port side was the side docked at port for loading and unloading materials. But the dictionary says when one looks forward on a ship, the starboard side is on the right side. So I assume that's how it works. Anyone else ever wonder about this?

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I read years ago that the port side was indeed the side with the port or opening in it to load stores. And the starboard side was the side with the steering board which was like a rudder.

Now I just look for the carpet with the red edge in the passageway on the port side so I can find my cabin more quickly.

The dictionary is exactly right. Starboard is the right side facing forward and port side is the left. :)

I've never deliberately booked port vs. starboard because even in a port where the ship is port side to the pier one time, that can change and the starboard side could be to the pier the next visit. In some ports, the side closest to the pier will have a wonderful view of cranes and container ships, the other side a sweeping view of the harbor and surrounding area. When the ship is at sea, there's water on both sides. If I cared that much about whether "my" balcony overlooked the pier, I'd have to research every single port and do an analysis of which side of the ship was more consistently next to the pier. Even then, it could be that side for half the ports and the other side for the rest of the ports. I book based on price and location on the ship in relation to what's IN the ship, not outside. There's always Promenade, Lido and whatever else public deck is on the ship to watch sailaways. Not something I'm going to think twice about or stress over. :)

Your right Pam, the ship will dock on either side when at different ports. So when booking a cabin it doesn't matter, only price and location. But at least I finally know the difference between Starboard side and port side. Happy cruising!

We have been on a port side cabin on every cruise so far. We are in a port side cabin for our next cruise on the Ruby as well. Not sure why, Perhaps it's just luck. Certainly have had no complaints. We have had great views everywhere. :cool:

SeattleCruiselover

I've never deliberately booked port vs. starboard because even in a port where the ship is port side to the pier one time, that can change and the starboard side could be to the pier the next visit. In some ports, the side closest to the pier will have a wonderful view of cranes and container ships, the other side a sweeping view of the harbor and surrounding area. When the ship is at sea, there's water on both sides. If I cared that much about whether "my" balcony overlooked the pier, I'd have to research every single port and do an analysis of which side of the ship was more consistently next to the pier. Even then, it could be that side for half the ports and the other side for the rest of the ports. I book based on price and location on the ship in relation to what's IN the ship, not outside. There's always Promenade, Lido and whatever else public deck is on the ship to watch sailaways. Not something I'm going to think twice about or stress over. :)[/quote   As DD is fond of saying, "both sides of the ship are going to the same place.. Does it really matter?"

I doubt that anyone else has even thought about it.

When I was a kid we had a boat. My father taught me this trick to learn the difference between "Port" and "Starboard": "Port" is the short word, and so is "left". "Starboard" is the long word, and so is "right".

When facing forward (the 'pointy' end of ship):

Port has four letters in the word, so does the word left . Both 'port' and 'left' have four letters. Port side is LEFT , starboard is RIGHT.

That was the way I was taught.

The traditional nautical terms Port and Starboard are left and right respectively. It has nothing to do with which side the ship docks. Overall it doesnt make much difference which side you book but if your itinerary is a "round trip" round, say, Hawaii or New Zealand or perhaps cruise along the Mexican Pacific coast or Alaska then if you want land views you need to pick your side depending on which direction you are travelling. Clockwise = starboard or North-South = port. Ships dock on either side depending on the wharf, currents, weather, etc.

MicCanberra

Navigation lights on ships/boats and Bouys as also work on this theory Red light = Port, Left side, and Green Light = Starboard, right side.

helpthejuggler

The only difference I can think of is that during sea days, think which direction we would be sailing to either get sun on the balcony or not at a particular time of day.

e.g. if we are sailing south, sun rises in east, so port side for sun with breakfast.

Personally, I am not sure about Princess but on Celebrity ships the smoking sections on deck are on the Port side. I choose Starboard balcony cabins for no particular reason but on reflection maybe my subconcious has been picking this side so as to not have cigar / cigarette smoke wafting down (it happened to a friend on her cruise).:D

On cruises travelling North or South the sun will be on one side and the other side in shade. But that could be either port or starboard. We were in starboard on our recent cruise and had one stop where we were on port side.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I was taught to remember no RED PORT LEFT.

Krazy Kruizers

Years ago we were on a couple of ships where the cabins were numbered consectively -- i.e. -- 7001, 7002, 7003, etc. all on one side.

Wish I could remember which ships that numbering was on.

That has happened to us. We booked the same cabin on the Noordam -- same itinerary. The first time the port side faced all the ports. The next time we did this same cruise -- the starboard side faced all the ports.

Actually there are two International buoy coloring systems; Australia, Europe and other areas fall in Region A as listed above; in North/South America (Region B) the "red" side of the channel when coming in from the sea;

here in the US, we learn the phrase "Red, Right, Returning" -

Most of the Caribbean follows the Region B. It was odd to go into Martinique - a part of France - and see the red buoys on the left!

Actually there are two International buoy coloring systems; Australia, Europe and other areas fall in Region A as listed above; in North/South America (Region B) the "red" side of the channel when coming in from the sea;   here in the US, we learn the phrase "Red, Right, Returning" - Most of the Caribbean follows the Region B. It was odd to go into Martinique - a part of France - and see the red buoys on the left!   Aloha,   John

I learned this as a child, but now I can't remember if it means the red bouy should BE on the right, or if the boat should GO ON the right side of the bouy.:confused: Would you please refresh my memory? :o

As for which side of the ship we book, I look at the itinerary and see if there will be something worth seeing while the ship is sailing.. For instance, on a south bound Alaska trip we chose port so that we would be on the mainland side. On our Black Sea cruise we chose port so that we would be able to see the land as we traveled close to the coast and on full transit Panama, we chose starboard so that we would have shade on our balcony in the afternoon. The cabins are the same on both sides, so for many itineraries it just doesn't matter. :)

Here in North America it is "red right return" which means to keep the red buoy to the right when returning into port. I live on a harbour and am lucky enough to see ships and boats going in and out all the time.

On our first cruise in Europe we were surprised to find the buoys were the opposite to home.

Here in North America it is "red right return" which means to keep the red buoy to the right when returning into port. I live on a harbour and am lucky enough to see ships and boats going in and out all the time.   On our first cruise in Europe we were surprised to find the buoys were the opposite to home.

Thanks! I guess it's like driving. Every region has it's own rules. :cool:

calliopecruiser

I didn't realize the "red, right, return" didn't apply globally. That's good to know.

I think the only difference between choosing port or starboard cabins from the passengers' point of view would be the location of the sun, unless you're doing a round trip. For my eastward voyage (north of the equator), I chose the starboard side because the sun is always in the south. Of course the ship doesn't travel exactly east, but it should help ;)

When facing the front of the ship just remember P.S. like at the end of a letter!

I was taught to remember no "RED PORT LEFT.

That's correct. On boats, there is also a white light on the stern, and each of the three lights has a shield that let's the light shine in a specific viewing angle. See this graphic:

When spotting another boat at night, the colors of the lights that are visible will indicate the direction the other boat is going as it relates to your position. In the illustration, if you see a red and a green light, the other boat is heading straight at you. If you see a green and a white light, you are on it's starboard side and it is heading to your right. If you see only a white light, it is heading away from you.

This works for any vessel. The same light colors are used on airplanes for the same reasons.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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The Family Vacation Guide

Port vs. Starboard: How to Remember Which Side Is Which

posted by James Brockbank on July 5, 2022 // last updated on July 5, 2022

When it comes to heading off on a cruise , one of the most important things, yet one which we often overlook, is understanding port vs. starboard.

These terms aren’t just important for the captain and crew . They’re also useful to anyone onboard so they can pay attention to commands and signage, especially in case of emergency.

In this post, we’re going to focus on two of the most important terms and provide easy solutions for keeping them in your mind. Let’s dive deep into understanding port vs. starboard, and how to remember which side is which.

What Happens if Perspective Changes?

Steering side, loading side, left has four letters, right for the most r’s, red port wine left, additional tips: bow vs. stern, port vs. starboard: wrap up, port vs. starboard: overview.

The difference between port vs. starboard is quite simple. Both are terms that define one side of the ship. If you are looking toward the front (bow) of the boat, the port is on the left. That leaves the starboard on the right.

Seems simple enough, right? Why are these terms necessary instead of just using right and left, like nearly everything else in existence? These terms give each side a clear definition regardless of perspective.

It might help to consider another situation that does not use defined terms and instead relies on left vs. right. Let’s discuss one of America’s favorite pastimes, baseball.

As you might already know, there are nine distinct positions in baseball for the team on the field. Most of these are straightforward. The first baseman is near first base, while the catcher is behind the plate catching the pitches. The list goes on.

But two positions aren’t 100% clear to people unfamiliar with baseball. These are the outfield positions of the left field and right field.

Even if someone knows that left and right fields are positions deep in the outfield and on either side, it isn’t clear which side is which. If you look from home base to the outfield, left is on the third-base side and right is on the first-base side. That is the correct terminology.

But now put yourself in the shoes of someone in the bleachers sitting behind the outfield, facing home plate. From their perspective, the left is on the other side of the field, near first base, while the right is on the third-base side.

If they were to assume this perspective defines who plays the left-field position, they would be incorrect, even though their intuition and understanding of right vs. left tell them otherwise.

This is one reason boats use the terms port vs. starboard to tell the difference between the boat sides. It doesn’t matter which way you are facing, the port is always on one side of the boat and starboard on the other.

As a reminder, port is to the left when you are on the boat facing the front (bow). Starboard is to the right.

Origination of Sailing Terms

Hopefully, you’re starting to see why these sailing terms are useful. It’s not just to make it difficult for beginners. It provides everyone with a clearly defined term for each side of the boat, regardless of perspective.

But even with that, where did the words port and starboard come from? To answer that, we can imbibe in a little history lesson. 

Today, most ships use a rudder to control steering. It is placed in the boat’s centerline, toward the rear, and can easily allow for a change in direction from one side to the other.

That wasn’t always the case. Before rudders, one oar served as the steering oar. It would come off one side of the ship and help provide directional control. Some whitewater rafts still use a similar concept.

Because most people are right-handed, the steering oar is on the ship’s right side when looking forward.

The word starboard is a combination of two Old English words. First, the word “stéor” meant to steer. Second, the word ”bord” referred to a side of the boat.

Since the boat’s steering side was the right side, starboard referred to that same side. Sailors and captains have cemented starboard into maritime terminology.

Since the steering side was on the right of the ship when looking forward, ships usually pulled into the harbor with that side facing the open water. The other side of the boat, the one on the left, would be closer to the dock.

That side would be used for loading and unloading crew and cargo and was known as larboard, which meant the loading side.

But larboard and starboard are a bit too similar in names. Thus, larboard eventually changed to port. The ship’s side that faced the port when docked is called port. That makes a bit of sense now, right?

Even with this bit of understanding, it can still be challenging to remember which side is port and which is starboard. And that is where this next section can help out.

Port vs. Starboard: How To Remember Which Side Is Which

There are many ways to keep track of port vs. starboard and how to remember which side is which. For some lucky people , they can hear the definition one time and never forget it.

But most people do not have a perfect memory, especially if they don’t get a lot of time on the water. For those, we have come up with a few main ways to help keep track of port vs. starboard.

These include:

• Left has four letters;
• Right is for the one with the most r’s; and
• Is there any red port wine left?

Let’s discuss each of these in detail so you’ll never have trouble remembering which is which again.

If you take a close look at the features of the words port and starboard, you can quite rapidly identify which side is which.

First, you can see that the word port has four letters. Do you know what else has four letters? The word left. 

The left side of the boat is the port side. Just remember that this is based on the idea that you are on the deck, looking forward toward the front (bow) of the boat.

You can also identify the number of r’s in each word. The term with the most r’s is the one on the right side.

While port only has one r, starboard has two. Since starboard has more r’s, it refers to the right side of the boat.

Two r’s, right side. Once again, keep in mind that this is when you are on the boat looking forward.

Those are two of the easiest ways to identify port vs. starboard, and how to remember which side is which. But they aren’t the only methods.

You might have noticed that some boats look like they’re continually decorated for Christmas. They have red and green lights on either side of the ship, and every boat that travels at night is supposed to have these in the same placement and illuminated.

The purpose of these lights is to help others identify which direction the ship is traveling. When in open waters, it is crucial to spot other traffic and ensure that you stay clear of one another.

The red and green lights indicate one side from the other even when someone is so far away they can’t decipher where the rest of the ship is. The port side of any ship should have red-colored lights, while the starboard side should have green-colored lights.

There’s a simple tip you can use to remember this fact. Port wine is red. Therefore, the red side of the boat is the port side.

But what if you can’t see the lights? Port wine can still help with this simple phrase, “Port is always left at sea, but never left at dinner.”

Get it? In other words, the port is on the left side at sea, but port remaining after dinner is never right.

The bottom line is that you can remember that the port has four letters and is on the same side of the boat as the red lights, while the starboard has two r’s and is on the side with green lights.

Time for a little bonus round. If you are working on understanding port and starboard, it’s probably helpful to understand other basic sailing terms used on any ship. And that’s bow vs. stern.

Once again, these terms refer to what we usually would call the front and back of the ship. But to ensure that it is always 100% clear which is which, the terms bow and stern are used instead.

While arguably not as important as the left/right distinction, this is another set of terms deeply rooted in maritime customs and likely isn’t going to change. So let’s ensure we’re clear on them so you can always know what the sailors or captain is referring to.

The bow of any ship is the frontmost section, the one that punches through the water first when traveling forward. Bows come in many different shapes and sizes, but the term is used on all ships and boats to refer to the front piece.

A simple way to remember that the bow is the front is by thinking that when you bow to someone , you bend to the front. Bow forward.

Turning the other direction, you’ll find the stern at the rearmost section of the ship. Once again, sterns can be vastly different when you compare different ships against one another, but the term stern refers to a section that is farthest back, the one that trails the rest of the boat when underway.

This one is a bit more challenging to come up with a mnemonic device for, but if you’re willing to remember the days when spanking was used, you could think of the term stern relating to a stern punishment on one’s behind, or rear. The stern punishment is on the rear. Stern rear.

It might seem strange that maritime terminology uses such outdated and odd terms for different parts of the ship. But as we discussed, using these terms ensures that everyone is clear about the side of the boat mentioned and helps identify where the boat is traveling, even with pitch black outside.

Port vs. starboard, how to remember which side is which? Port has four letters, just like the word left, and is the left side of the boat when one is facing forward on the boat.

Starboard has two r’s, one more than port, and therefore relates to the right side of the boat when looking forward.

Red port wine is left is another trick to remember which side is which. Not only because the port is left, but also because the port side of the boat should have red lights on it. Green lights are on the starboard side.

And to wrap up our bonus round, the bow is the front of the ship, just like when you bow forward. The stern is the rear, just like a stern punishment is on the rear.

With these simple tricks, you can always remember which side of the boat is which. The port is on the left, starboard is on the right. The bow is in front, the stern is in the rear.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

Glacier Bay Cruising - Port or Starboard

By The Tsar , September 20, 2013 in Alaska

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I am a HAL cruiser, trying Star Princess Alaska Cruise, June 2014 for the first time.

My wife and I are taking my daughter and her husband on this cruise. It will be their first cruise. We plan to book adjoining Mini Suites, but uncertain as to which side would offer best viewing from the cabin balconies during the Glacier Bay cruising.

Port or Starboard ???

Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

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Either....the ship slowly rotates in front of the glacier.

Having said that, I think that the open decks are the place to be for best viewing.

As Chrysalis says, either side is fine when cruising the Bay. That being said, when the ship approaches the Marjorie Glacier, it will initially be on the port side. The Captain will bring the ship to a stop and then begin a slow spin (on our cruise to Glacier Bay, the ship spun to port). As the ship leaves the area, the Glacier will be on the starboard side. Therefore, you may have a bit more sightseeing time from the port side... but YMMV. I certainly do agree that the upper decks (especially the forward bridge wings) and the Promenade will afford better views than your balcony.

Port is far superior. The ship will enter Glacier Bay early in the morning. Like around 6:00 a.m. At that hour, the starboard side will be in the shade as the mountains on the starboard side will block the sun. The port side will receive a welcoming glow of early morning sun which is great for taking pictures. All of the glaciers that you will want to see will be on the port side as you sail in to the Bay. When you get to Margerie Glacier at around mid-morning, the sun and light will be great and if you have an open air or half-covered balcony, you can catch all of this glory from your balcony without having to rush up to the top deck and try to elbow your way in to a rail location. The ship will eventually turn around at which time it will be late morning and you can head over to the Promenade on the starboard side or make your way up top at your leisure. The sail out of Glacier Bay will put the better viewing on the starboard side, but the light of day will be far less favorable. As anyone who has ever taken photos knows, your best light is between 5:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., and things deteriorate from there. You are better off capturing the "better" side of Glacier Bay with the early morning light from the port side than with the mid-day light from the starboard side.

See posts # 83, 84, 85, 99, 101, 102, 103 and 104 from this thread.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1903541

Each and every picture was taken from a port side balcony. Being up on top of the ship would have been just as good, but not better, since the best viewing was directly off of the port side. Using the bow of the ship as a "12:00 indicator", all of the best viewing is between 7:00 and 12:00. There is nothing at 1:00-3:00 that one needs to see from the bow of the ship. And being on your balcony provides privacy and breakfast without having to be "presentable" at 7:00 to your fellow passengers.

You want to be on deck or someplace where you can see both sides.

Upper decks where you can wander from side to side or to the bow are best to view, hear the commentary and enjoy this special place.

Port is far superior. The ship will enter Glacier Bay early in the morning. Like around 6:00 a.m. At that hour, the starboard side will be in the shade as the mountains on the starboard side will block the sun. The port side will receive a welcoming glow of early morning sun which is great for taking pictures. All of the glaciers that you will want to see will be on the port side as you sail in to the Bay. When you get to Margerie Glacier at around mid-morning, the sun and light will be great and if you have an open air or half-covered balcony, you can catch all of this glory from your balcony without having to rush up to the top deck and try to elbow your way in to a rail location. The ship will eventually turn around at which time it will be late morning and you can head over to the Promenade on the starboard side or make your way up top at your leisure.

Port is far superior. The ship will enter Glacier Bay early in the morning. Like around 6:00 a.m. At that hour, the starboard side will be in the shade as the mountains on the starboard side will block the sun. The port side will receive a welcoming glow of early morning sun which is great for taking pictures. All of the glaciers that you will want to see will be on the port side as you sail in to the Bay. When you get to Margerie Glacier at around mid-morning, the sun and light will be great and if you have an open air or half-covered balcony, you can catch all of this glory from your balcony without having to rush up to the top deck and try to elbow your way in to a rail location. The ship will eventually turn around at which time it will be late morning and you can head over to the Promenade on the starboard side or make your way up top at your leisure. The sail out of Glacier Bay will put the better viewing on the starboard side, but the light of day will be far less favorable. As anyone who has ever taken photos knows, your best light is between 5:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., and things deteriorate from there. You are better off capturing the "better" side of Glacier Bay with the early morning light from the port side than with the mid-day light from the starboard side.   See posts # 83, 84, 85, 99, 101, 102, 103 and 104 from this thread. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1903541   Each and every picture was taken from a port side balcony. Being up on top of the ship would have been just as good, but not better, since the best viewing was directly off of the port side. Using the bow of the ship as a "12:00 indicator", all of the best viewing is between 7:00 and 12:00. There is nothing at 1:00-3:00 that one needs to see from the bow of the ship. And being on your balcony provides privacy and breakfast without having to be "presentable" at 7:00 to your fellow passengers.

Plus it can be quite COLD early on! Nice if you have port side balcony to be able to duck back in and warm up. Once the sun is up, better to be topside.

frugaltravel

I totally agree. Being able to move from side to side as well as seeing straight ahead has huge benefits. You can often see wildlife in the bay and I can guarantee you it doesn't all hang out on the port side of the ship :)

Host Jazzbeau

On our cruise the Captain said he would give both sides equal time, but the port side seemed to get much more time at Marjorie. [We didn't have a balcony, so this is based on impressions from moving around the Promenade Deck.]

I am a HAL cruiser, trying Star Princess Alaska Cruise, June 2014 for the first time.   My wife and I are taking my daughter and her husband on this cruise. It will be their first cruise. We plan to book adjoining Mini Suites, but uncertain as to which side would offer best viewing from the cabin balconies during the Glacier Bay cruising.   Port or Starboard ???   Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Viewing glacier bay from up on deck is definitely the best place. The magnitude of the bay is unbelievable. Wear gloves, hats, layers of sweatshirts and windbreakers and go to the top of the ship and experience the sheer beauty of glacier bay. Viewing from your balcony doesn't do it justice. I cruised 5 years ago on the Sapphire going southbound. My TA, Jeff, who was also on the cruise as our escort for the 7 day land tour pre cruise, booked all 150+ on the starboard side. We had the sun and warmth on the balcony until at least 9:30 pm when the sun finally set. One day it was so warm on our balcony that we wore shorts while we ate lunch , passing the huge ice valleys and glaciers of the inside passage. This city girl was truly amazed!!

The best viewing of the Glacier will not be from your own room but will be from the open deck which will provide much more panoramic views but also allow you to quickly go from one side of the ship to the other. Be sure to dress in layers. It can get chilly but is well worth it.

Viewing from your balcony doesn't do it justice.

Sorry, but I don't agree. The people up top will be glued to the rail on the port side 90% of the time because that is where the action is. On Princess, you can get an open air baclony that affords the same view as being up top.

Budget Queen

Sure= most of the time BOTH sides do get a view. I have personally been on one Princess sailing, that the cpt did NOT give the starboard side any view. Did a 180 and LEFT.

This question comes up every week. Then the my side, both side comments come up, to support what that particular poster did.

Clear for consideration with this decision is, the commentary matches up- with the glacier views from the port side and NOT the starboard side. The other feature, people don't mention is the bountiful wildlife for at least the first two hours of this sailing. The glaciers are NOT seen for about 3 hours after entry. Bonus is prior to that time, again several hours for a lot of wildlife potential.

SO if you ONLY are going to park yourself on your balcony, a port side is superior. Port side IS many times a longer view. I have sailed Glacier Bay, 5 times in the last 2 years and was the case on every one of these. A couple times only 10 minutes less. BUT once you see a massive calving that lasts 30 seconds, then you are glad for that extra time. I also find that the decks aren't all that crowded, the traffic is on the constant move. I personally like the lower covered promenade type deck, which is just about always wide open with rail space. Yes, a slight inconvenience going through two doors for a run to the other side, less than a minute. Standing near the back offers staying outside and going around the back. Depending on the ship, may have front access.

It can be cold, having the proper attire is essential, which you can plan on plenty of people who will not.

I am one, who would never consider not being on the move. I am out the entire day, starting prior to dawn and then staying out due to my priorities and my enjoyment. This is a plan for few people. :) Depends on YOU and what you hope to see and do.

So the basic question, needs the person to consider the points above, perhaps, which could direct toward the answer for them.

What I would do is get cabins on the same deck on opposite sides. You can all go to the Port side balcony to view the glaciers and when the ship does the 180 you all go the Starboard cabin balcony.

Sorry...meant to start this as a new thread.

This is the Coral Princess in front of Margerie Glacier, along with that kayaker. They pulled up and rotated 180 and stayed starboard towards Margerie for close to an hour and then left. They don’t always continually rotate.

If you look closely at the top deck, (or enlarge the photo if your device permits), you will see that ALL of the people there are at the rail toward midship. No one is positioned so that they can see what is on the other side of the ship. They are all looking directly perpendicular to the ship. That is exactly the same view that you get from a balcony. This notion that you have to be situated so that you have a 360° view is overblown. If you are going to strare at the side of the ship where the glaciers are, you can do that just fine from a port side balcony first, and then move toward the starboard side after the ship turns. There is no great urgency to head up top early in the morning unless you have a starboard side or inside cabin. If you book a port cabin, you can enjoy the comfort of your own cabin for several hours before moving. Doing so will afford you the same view as all those people up top in the photo. Sure, the people up top have easier access to walk across the ship to see the other side. But when they do, they will walk back saying: "Nothing much to see on the other side". Having greater convience to a lesser view isn't much of a trade compared to the comfort, warmth and space of one's own balcony. At least until the ship spins around.

Fine for you. That is your opinion. On the way into the bay and for a long during during the transit, you can see EVERYTHING from the front when you can also easily move from side to side. Tell me that is possible from your balcony - sorry it just ain't so. Sure once you are at the glacier the balcony might be as good as on an open deck, but only for a while. Then you take 15 minutes to get from your balcony to an open deck and haven't scoped out in advance where is best so you get stuck behind others on the deck. Remember, the ship is sailing through the bay for a couple of hours or more before it even parks itself at the glacier. Not all scenic and wildlife views are from the port side in these cases.

When I was in Glacier Bay I found spots on the open decks that had virtually no one else there. I was able to easily move around the open deck and was not limited with a view basically straight out from my room/balcony. I had much greater peripheral vision.

All I can say is that I hope most people on CC and elsewhere believe you. That will continue to make the open decks less crowded. Thank you!!

On HAL they opened the bow and that was a great place. You could see both sides and were closer to the water.

Fine for you. That is your opinion. On the way into the bay and for a long during during the transit, you can see EVERYTHING from the front when you can also easily move from side to side. Tell me that is possible from your balcony - sorry it just ain't so.

The first three pictures posted above were taken during the sail in to the Bay. You tell me. What was I missing? Brown, unforested, shaded mountainside. Look again at the second photo. The ship in the distance was directly in front of us. You absolutely can see in front of you from a balcony. Again, this is on a Princess, open top balcony. If you have a roof over your head, things will differ. I'm not saying that this vantage point is superior. But the idea that things improve measurably up on top is overstated. I took lots if photos from every angle. The only keepers and everyone I have posted here and in my review were taken from my cabin balcony. Go back to the original post. The question asked is that if one is going in to Glacier Bay and looking at the scenery from a cabin balcony , which side is better. The question wasn't, "Is going up top better". Answering the question posed, port side is better.

Thank you for all the input.

For view from the cabin, the Port side appears to be the recommendation.

Again Thank You for the quick responses.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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6 reasons to choose Celebrity Edge for your Alaska cruise

Heads up, cruisers, there's a new cruise ship option in Alaska — and it's a game changer.

Travelers have long had plenty of choice in Alaska, with options including traditional cruise ships from lines like Holland America and Princess Cruises , tricked-out megaships from Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean and small ships from the likes of Seabourn and UnCruise Adventures . Now Celebrity Cruises has added its first Edge Class vessel to the mix, providing Alaska-bound cruisers with a different way to experience the Last Frontier.

Launched in 2018, the 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge was the first vessel in the line's innovative Edge Class series. It showcased a slew of industry firsts in technology and design, including a new type of balcony cabin for oceangoing ships. Edge was also the first ship to feature the Magic Carpet, a movable, 90-ton platform cantilevered over the side of the vessel that can be used as a bar, a restaurant or a tender launching point.

From the ship's window-loving design to its gorgeous outdoor spaces, here's why an Alaska cruise and Celebrity Edge are an ideal pair.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Edge's design maximizes the views

Celebrity Edge's outward-facing design serves an Alaska sailing well.

"The Edge Series ships are designed to create a closer connection between guests and the destinations in which they sail," Emma Mumford, Celebrity Cruises' senior director of global public relations and communications, said. "We are able to create an outside-in design by placing the structural integrity on the interior of the ship, allowing for more floor-to-ceiling glass."

You'll certainly find more viewing vantage points on Edge than on the line's other ships in Alaska. For example, Celebrity's Solstice, Millennium and Eclipse vessels all feature the Sky Observation Lounge (Deck 14). The venue provides impressive views looking out over the ship's bow and to the starboard side.

Celebrity Edge basically took the Sky Observation Lounge concept and improved on it. The ship boasts ample and expansive windows across all decks, including the Eden entertainment area, a three-deck-high glass-walled lounge, bar and restaurant venue. As a result, your stellar viewing options aren't limited to one location.

In the central atrium on Deck 4, the ship's open design combined with an abundance of exterior glass means you can see out both sides of the ship from one spot. For example, during my lunch in Le Grand Bistro on the port side of the ship, I could choose to look out that restaurant's windows, or I could gaze across the atrium and see out the windows on the starboard side of the ship near Cafe al Bacio.

Another popular spot to take in the views was the ship's Solarium area. The expansive windows there are lined with comfortable loungers, making it a cozy place to soak in the Alaska scenery without braving the elements. The expansive glass roof over Celebrity Edge's Solarium brings in more light than you'd find in the same space on one of the line's older Solstice Class ships. Plus, Edge and its Edge Class siblings feature the largest Solariums in the fleet.

Warm up with a bowl of hot apple cider oatmeal or a banana nut muffin from the Solarium's Spa Cafe (open for breakfast and lunch).

Infinite Veranda cabins bring the outside in

Celebrity Edge was the first oceangoing vessel to debut Infinite Veranda cabins, a concept borrowed from river-based ships. These cabins feature a glass wall that slides down at the touch of a button and a sitting area beside it that can be closed off, creating a balcony-like space, or opened up to expand the interior room space. Whenever I was in my cabin during my Alaska sailing, I spent most of the time peering out my window and lowering it to take photos and breathe in that crisp, clean Alaska air.

While most standard cabin balcony doors provide ample natural light and decent views, the beauty of Infinite Verandas is that you aren't "blocked" by a door. You get extra indoor cabin space when the weather is cold or rainy and you don't want to be outside on a balcony, but you can also roll down the window to enjoy the outside from inside your cabin.

Also, many big-ship balcony cabins are set up with the balcony door adjacent to a couch or bed that faces the opposite wall, rather than the outer wall. The Infinite Veranda chairs face the window, so you can enjoy the view without awkwardly sitting sideways on your couch or bed.

Related: Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Innovative outdoor spaces let you spread out during scenic sailing

Celebrity Edge showcases some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces at sea, so the big question for me was, "Can you still enjoy them during a cold-weather cruise?" You absolutely can.

Cruisers on Alaska sailings seem to be well prepared for cold weather, so spending time outdoors on the ship wasn't an issue. Many folks donned warm jackets and hats to hang out at the Sunset Bar on Deck 15, play cornhole by the pool on Deck 14 or have a drink and soak in the views from the Magic Carpet.

Related: Alaska cruise packing list: What to pack for a sailing up north

Additionally, crew members handed out fleece blankets for an extra layer of warmth (and stacks of blankets were always available at stands throughout the ship). Occasionally, hot chocolate service made its way around the upper decks. It was also available when we boarded the ship after a port day. Pro tip: Warm up faster by adding a shot of bourbon to your cup of cocoa.

A segment of our sailing included plying the glacier-walled waterway of Endicott Arm. During this portion, the ship is surrounded by the dramatic Coast Mountains range. From the towering snow-topped mountains to the floating chunks of ice that split from the glaciers lining the waterway, it's a spectacular sight to see.

While I could have enjoyed epic views from the comfort of my Infinite Veranda cabin (and I did for a bit), I made my way through the ship for different vantage points — which were plentiful.

I began at the Magic Carpet. The platform's expansive open windows and roof provided clear visibility while protecting us from the elements (there was light rain that day). As more passengers discovered the Magic Carpet, I moved on to Deck 15, making my way along the walking track and snagging open spots near the edge of the ship when I could.

AquaClass guests have access to the exclusive Thermal Suite area in the Spa on Deck 14. (Passengers not in AquaClass cabins can purchase a day pass for $69 per person or a full-week pass for $219 per person.) The space features a somewhat hidden viewing deck in front of the SEA Thermal Suite, which offers forward-facing views.

Also, the gold penguin statues on the deck make for the cutest photos — probably the only time you'll see penguins in the wilds of Alaska!

If you don't want to be in the elements, you can snag a heated lounger inside the Thermal Suite and enjoy a cozy viewing experience. Know that your view might be a bit obstructed by folks on the deck. I found that by late morning, more guests had made their way up to the spa, making it more challenging to get a good viewing spot.

The Sunset Bar is another prime viewing spot on Celebrity Edge. You'll find it on Deck 15 at the back of the ship; come here as your ship sails away from the glacier back toward the Inside Passage. Comfortable couches and tables line the ship's edge around the bar area, providing a relaxing spot to enjoy a drink and take in the Alaska scenery. Our group met here almost every afternoon before dinner.

Beyond the Podium talks provide ports-of-call previews

Celebrity Cruises offers enrichment talks and lectures across its fleet. The line's Beyond the Podium series features various experts in history, nature and culture. The program provides insight into the ports of call you visit during your sailing.

Celebrity Edge's "Beyond the Podium: Epic Alaska" discussion was a fantastic overview of our upcoming itinerary. Led by naturalist Celia Garland, the event was well attended, with most of the Theatre's 900 seats filled. She was engaging and knowledgeable, and I learned a lot about Alaska's wildlife, natural attractions and local diversions available in each port.

Additionally, Garland narrated our passage through Endicott Arm over the ship's intercom. She shared details about the region, such as what wildlife to look out for and how glaciers form. Garland infused our mini-science lesson with a guided meditation of sorts — encouraging us to relax, breathe deeply and assume a posture of gratitude for what we were witnessing. It was a nice reminder to savor every moment, especially because I get so caught up in "doing it all" on a cruise that I can forget to take a minute to relax. I don't know that many other cruise ships offer guided meditations during their enrichment lectures.

Enrichment activities for kids

Although kids' activities under Celebrity's Camp at Sea program don't change on an Alaska itinerary, Celebrity Edge is one of two Celebrity ships that offer STEM-based activities. (The other one is Celebrity Equinox.) Sponsored by the Frost Museum of Science, the program features exclusive activities and events centered around marine wildlife, nautical exploration and ecological conservation — all rich topics to explore during a cruise in Alaska.

For example, teens learn how to detect microplastics and other marine debris and explore ways to reduce ocean pollution. The youngest cruisers create totem pole crafts, learn about the animals of Alaska through games and participate in other engaging Alaska-themed activities.

You can still enjoy a pool in Alaska

If swimming is a priority for you but braving the cold is not, you'll hit the jackpot on Celebrity Edge, thanks to its heated indoor Solarium pool. It's anchored by a gorgeous three-dimensional art wall that resembles ocean waves. The glass ceiling and floor-to-top windows allow light to stream in, creating a cheerful and tranquil environment. It's an adults-only pool, but it's open to families (and kids) from 5 to 7 p.m. every day. There's also a hot tub in the Solarium area, so you can trade your warm swim for a hot soak.

On my cool-weather cruise, I did notice a few hardy passengers swimming in the outdoor pool. The hot tubs outside by the main pool also seemed to always have people in them.

Related: 22 things to do on a cruise when it's rainy and cold

Celebrity Edge Alaska itineraries

In 2024 and 2025, Celebrity Edge will offer seven-night Alaska Dawes Glacier sailings from May through September. The itinerary is available as a round-trip sailing from Seattle or a one-way sailing from Seattle to Vancouver, British Columbia (or vice versa). Fares for an inside cabin start at $749 per person.

Bottom line

Celebrity Edge is a game changer in Alaska with its inventive design, seemingly made to immerse guests in Alaska's breathtaking scenery. From inviting outdoor spaces to cozy indoor areas, the ship also offers ample ways to enjoy your time on board, no matter the weather.

Even better, Edge also delivers fantastic and plentiful dining options, as well as gorgeous bars and lounges that serve creative cocktails. Couples and families with kids who love to explore and learn should not overlook Celebrity Edge when planning their cruise vacation to Alaska.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.