Port Or Starboard? What’s the best side?

I wish I had a pound for every time I have been asked this question.  I could have sailed around the world in Luxury!   Aah yes! but would I choose Port or Starboard for my cabin?  Or left side versus the right side of the ship?

I suppose it depends on where you’re headed.  I know that quite a few seasoned cruisers swear by the Starboard side. Although it really depends on what type of cruise you are on.

For instance, if you are sailing in one direction, North or West  generally people prefer to choose a port side cabin in order to see the sunsets.  Whereas if you are sailing South or East, you are more likely to see the sun rise if you are in a starboard cabin.

Of course this is not set in stone, as if you are sailing in open seas on a Transatlantic cruise for instance,, the view is pretty much sea, sea, and more sea. So it would make no difference to your experience.

On ports of call, again,  depending where they are, the ship can dock on either the left or right hand side.

When I was on the P&O Ventura sailing out of Venice, I had a cabin on the port side, as she was docked on the left. however when we reached Civitavecchia, she docked on the right. So one side doesn’t consistently have better views in the port.

If you are on a Scenic cruise, somewhere like Alaska, or the Norwegian Fjords, ships tend to turn 360 degrees so both port and starboard cabins get good views, however saying that,  your best view is up on deck rather than in your cabin.

With the Caribbean, I don’t think it matters what side of the ship you are on, both sides have magnificent views – although you may not agree.  I suppose it depends on what part of the Caribbean you are visiting.

The short answer is, there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ side of the ship to have your cabin. Most of the time you’re up on deck or visiting ports of call so what difference does it really make?

Me?  I tend to go port side for no other reason that I am left handed! and naturally gravitate to the left!  Also I do like even numbers!

What do you think?  Do you have a preference, and if so why?

Gina