What do boats have a Port and Starboard side?

The terms “port” and “starboard” have origins rooted in the historical development of maritime language and practices. Here’s a detailed look at how these terms came to be:

Starboard

1. Etymology:
   • The term “starboard” comes from the Old English word “stéorbord,” which means “steering side.”
   • “Stéor” means “steer” and “bord” means “side of a boat.”
2. Historical Context:
   • In early boats, the steering oar or rudder was placed on the right side of the ship because most sailors were right-handed.
   • This side became known as the “steering board” side, or “starboard.”

Port

1. Etymology:
   • The term “port” was adopted later, replacing the earlier term “larboard” to avoid confusion.
   • “Larboard” referred to the side of the ship opposite the steering side and comes from Middle English “ladebord,” which means “loading side.” “Lade” means “to load” and “bord” means “side of a boat.”
2. Reason for Change:
   • “Larboard” sounded very similar to “starboard,” especially in the noisy environment of a ship.
   • To reduce communication errors, the term “port” was adopted in the 19th century, likely because it was the side that faced the port or harbor when docking.
   • The term “port” was easier to distinguish from “starboard,” helping sailors avoid potentially dangerous misunderstandings.
3. Practical Usage:
   • When a ship is docked, the left side (port side) faces the port, making it the side used for loading and unloading cargo.
   • By the mid-19th century, “port” was in common use by the Royal Navy and eventually became the standard term in maritime language.

Summary

• Starboard: Originated from Old English “stéorbord” (steering side), referring to the right side of the ship where the steering oar was located.
• Port: Replaced “larboard” (loading side) to avoid confusion with “starboard,” referring to the left side of the ship that typically faced the port for loading and unloading.

These terms are still used today for clear communication on vessels, ensuring everyone understands which side of the ship is being referred to, regardless of orientation.