In maritime history, knowing the terms used to refer to the sides of a ship is crucial because, without it, there are many risks, including the smooth running of the boat. It is worth noting that the terms port and starboard are more than semantics; they are navigational aids that have existed throughout the ages and across any potential confusion, regardless of how a person is positioned on the ship. For this paper, the port side will be defined as the left side of the boat when looking forward, regarding its direction, and a detailed discussion of what the port side is and its use in navigation, ‘the port side view,’ and much more will be provided. This considers the historical narrative and the technical information about the ship’s navigation at the port side. This post aims to inform people about one of the bases that assists or leads any maritime activity.
What is the port side of a boat?
The boat’s port side is identified as the left side when viewed from the bow or the front as a reference point. As a standard definition, this term in maritime operations helps avoid mix-ups and reduces the chances of mistakes. The word ‘port’ came from the medieval practice of bringing in sailing vessels so that the left side was next to the pier. In those days, the right side of a ship was the only side with a rudder as one of the steering means, thus less tendency to be in the way.
Determining the port side is critical in conforming to international maritime laws and safety standards. A good example is the fact that red lights are placed on the port side, enabling them to establish the vessel’s orientation in darkness or when there is fog. Being au fait with the port side is critical because marine navigation entails collision-free sailing.
Definition of the port side
The vessel’s port side is the ship’s left side when looking towards the bow or front of the boat. This class is universal among seafarers and essential for operating and trading safety. The word “port” came into general use so that there would be no uncertainty between the use of “port” and “starboard” when giving orders. On the port side of the vessel, red-colored navigation lights are fitted as maritime regulations require to indicate the stern location of the boat at night or when visibility is poor. These differentiating features make it possible to avoid collision between vessels due to the ship’s movement at sea.
During maritime training and operations, grasping the significance and recognizing the port side is essential. It assists in compliance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which govern the precedence of and the right to avoid collision depending on the position and movement of the vessel. People directly working onboard the vessel, such as operators and crew, must be trained on these regulations because these vessels traverse common waterways; thus, their safety is paramount.
Port side vs. left side
The expression ‘port side’ universally interprets any vessel’s left-hand side when facing forward at the vessel’s bow or front. This zone is essential internationally in maritime business to avoid misconceptions and maintain uniformity. Instead of the non-systematic expressions of “left” which depend upon the observer’s location, “port side” is a fixed, systematic vocabulary on direction with exclusively nautical applications. Such standardization is essential for operational effectiveness, especially during communication among crew members, especially while sailing, berthing, and in times of distress.
The names ‘port’ and ‘left’ are preferable because they also respect the traditions of the sea as described by the IMO. It should be noted that the term “port” was preferred to the older word “larboard,” which was used every day in the past to avoid confusion with the term “starboard. “This terminology is important because it seems necessary for compliance with rules of navigation and contributes to the accentuation of the correctness of all operational conditions at sea.
Historical origins of the term “port”
The English term ‘port’ is derived from the side of the ship that a vessel would usually dock on. In the past, a steering paddle was installed on the center-right of the boat, which is why most vessels would face the port side, followed by the ‘steering board side. This was common among early sailors, so it was appropriate for early sailing language to have some left steering board influence.
Historically, the term “larboard” was used, but since “starboard” and “larboard” would sound so similar, it was decided that the term “port” would be the replacement and risk would be minimized. This change was instituted in the 19th century for safety reasons. The term “port’’ is used worldwide in ships to represent the left-hand side of a ship’s bow, thus enabling unambiguous communication within the framework of the International Maritime Organization.
How do you identify the port side of a boat?
To determine the identity of the port side of the boat, it has to be understood how it is aligned along the vessel’s direction. The Port side is the ship’s left side as per the boat’s orientation to its stern. To identify it, many ships use internationally accepted color codes. The vessel’s left side is designated for the port side, which contains red lights used for navigation when visibility is low or functioning under cover of darkness. When absent, the starboard side uses green lights.
Furthermore, this distinction is often reinforced by the labels and the relative location of essential features on larger ships, such as the word “Port” on relevant placards. Understanding these conventions is necessary for the safe conduct of navigation, particularly concerning rules about crossing, overtaking, or meeting other vessels.
Visual cues for identifying port side
Several common symbols and conventions allow one to know which side of the vessel is the port side. For instance, red navigation lights are placed on the left side of the boat to enable other vessels to see the left side when it’s dark or during limited visibility. In addition, the markings on many ships will be red, with some also bearing port side markings to make identification easier. It is possible that on larger vessels, there are signs that say “Port” or similar words that are placed in various locations for crew and passengers to find their way around.
Moreover, the shipping norm also aids the identification process, which says that red is on even-numbered docks or markers when coming to a harbor or marina. For sailors and operators, these cues are crucial about the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), especially about safe movement and information exchange between vessels within the same waterways.
Navigation lights on the port side
For maritime safety, visibility lights on naval vessels, especially those on the port side, are vital as they allow for the identification of direction and the position of the ship, especially during the night or in bad weather. A red light is located on the port side, installed on the front of the boat to the 112.5-degree position at the back of the ship on the port side. This light is helpful to other vessels for determining whether they are on the left side of the bow of a boat, meaning they are staring at the left side while the bow of the ship is in front of them.
About this statement, the light has a purpose. It is red due to compliance with the applicable international Maritime Organization regulations, also known as COLREGs, which deal with navigation and placing various lights on different vessels to avoid collisions and other incidents. For example, when a ship sees a red light approaching it from the starboard side, it automatically knows it has the right of way, and the approaching boat must get out of the way. The fact that these lights have been agreed upon, and all ships use them for the same purpose, makes it easy to differentiate vessels and even increase safety at sea, in confined or familiar waters. Both professionals and amateur sailors need to understand what port-side navigation lights are and do so so that they possess the proper knowledge and sail appropriately.
Port side markings and indicators
Markings and indicators on the port side are vital in identifying the vessel’s left side when looking forward and operating the boat safely and efficiently. The first mark indicating the port side is the red masthead light, which can be seen at night or with poor visibility. It has an angle of 112.5 degrees from the fore part of the vessel to the left part. Furthermore, a customary practice of maritime ships is the placement of red colored flags or buoys to signify the port side, which aids in the application of the basic understanding that all mariners must adhere to, the red right returning principle that is commonly used throughout the United States in all its maritime channels. This means that red markers are to be placed on the vessel’s starboard side when coming back to harbors or transiting upstream.
Furthermore, mariners should also be able to identify port-side specific aids to navigation, such as can buoys and red lights atop structures marking safe water and clear of any hazard. These symbols, combined with the application of red lights, allow other vessels to communicate accurately and ascertain the location and heading of different ships. Understanding port-side markings and their meaning is essential for every navigator to be responsible for safety and regulation compliance at sea.
What’s the difference between port and starboard?
The two naval words causing this confusion are the plane’s left and right sides, commonly called port and starboard. As we have established in history, the plane’s left side is called the port, and the right side is called the starboard. These terminologies are used to shun any chances of misunderstanding, which might confuse the operation and control of a ship where accuracy is needed.
The differentiation for the sailors has been made even more transparent by using universal standard lights. At Night, the ship’s port side displays a red nav light while the starboard side displays a green light, thus making it easy to identify what direction the boat is facing. Unlike ‘left’ or ‘right’, which vary depending on who is looking, the terms port and starboard do not change, making coordinating activities on ships and off-them much easier.
Port vs. starboard: Left vs. right
Port and Starboard are the only terms that are not flexible or ambiguous in any maritime context, in contrast to ‘right’ and ‘left, ‘ which can change according to direction. Port denotes the ship’s left side when orientated towards the bow, the front of the boat, while starboard is the opposite side, marked as the right side. This is done to avert confusion, predominantly in high-tension circumstances like steering or emergencies. The historical origins of these terms date back to early ship design. The term Starboard emanates from the Early English word starboard, which meant a side of the boat where the steering oar was. In different circumstances, lads understanding and gaining experience of ships used the word larboard. Still, the words’ starboard’ and’ starboard’ were utilized due to the similarities between the words ‘larboard’ and ‘starboard.’ Correct terms for the vessel’s right and left sides ensure accuracy and maritime practices’ safety.
Historical reasons for the distinction
The terms “port” and “starboard” evolved out of specific practical reasons in early navigation. According to the tradition, a large oar was fastened to the right side of the boat since most sailors were right-handed. This side was called the steering side, or ‘steorbord’ from which the word “starboard” eventually came. The left side was somehow dubbed “larboard,” the side where the cargo was also placed. Due to the confusion that occurred from the sounds of the words “larboard” and “starboard,” the term “port” originated in the 19th century and was used to mean the side that was closest to the wet dock for shipping and storage.
Using such terms became the norm to promote safety and efficiency since it stressed clarity in communication, especially in the context of crucial navigation activities. This standardization system was vital because it helped sailors efficiently and accurately understand commands and language on board. Even today, “port” and “starboard” are still in extensive use in business maritime activities simply because they help ensure the proper movement of ships regardless of the observer’s position.
Importance in maritime navigation
Explaining the direction using the terms ‘port’ and ‘starboard’ is essential in combining precision and uniformity when performing navigation tasks, especially in critical times like in storms or busy oceans. Unlike directional expressions such as left or right, which rely on where the viewer is, these terms are the same no matter where the viewer is. This uniformity reduces the chances of a collision or intra-ship operational mistakes due to the lack of loss in translation.
Port and Starboard must follow specific national laws and statutes when maneuvers such as crossing, passing, or approaching other vessels. These terms are also primary for conveying orders to ship crew members and different ships or control posts. Their use is within the international maritime industry as one of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and are fundamental requirements for the safety and effective conduct of naval activities worldwide.
Why is the left side of a boat called port?
Throughout history, the left side of a ship was most popularly referred to as “larboard,” derived from the Old English meaning “loading side of a ship.” This is because the steering oars were located on the right, the starboard side. However, because this term was frequently used in the vernacular when people wanted to talk about the left side, it was replaced entirely with the word “port.”
This hoax came with that word and started using it throughout maritime nations. The word “port” came to mean the ship’s left side, which began from the idea that when the mast of the ship was away, another side of the boat would be “loading” on this side. From there, many operations, including ship steering, cargo management, and navigation, began referring to ports for easy understanding. As of modern times, the term remains a norm throughout maritime communities and regulations, which enable ease of communication when it comes to sailing.
Etymology of the term “port”
The word “port” is thought to come from the Latin word ‘porta’ which translates as a gate or an entrance. This suggests that the port was an access point to sailing vessels. The term butt meaning Loading, was used to refer to larboard which is currently known as the left area of a ship or a vessel. This was about the process of getting goods. But, the confusion with the term growing out of ‘starboard’ required change. By the end of the 1700s and the beginning of the 1800s, the term ‘port’ began to be popular since it was customary for a ship to moor up on the left-hand side of the harbor for more ease when it came to the process of loading and unloading of goods.
“port” was adopted by seafaring folk because the word was self-explanatory. It allowed crew members to communicate without much effort, especially during tense situations with deafening noises. International Regulations also explain the wide spread of the term port and its counterparts for Preventive Collision at Sea. Since then, “Port” has been the term used to refer to the left-hand side of a vessel. Its use is designed, and language changes to suit the requirements of the Olympic sport of sailing.
Connection to Ancient Steering Methods
The oh-so-important connection between the steering of ships and rudders and ‘port’ is an interrelated concept that can trace its origins to the ancient steering aids of early sailors. When ships were still in their early stages, the vessels were steered using a steering oar, also called ‘starboard’ fitted at the right side of the boat. This is because most men were right, and it was easier to steer the vessel in such a configuration. The consequence of this was that in order not to compromise the oarsman’s efficiency, the left side of the ship was made available for mooring and then came the word “port”.
As ship designs increased and the traditional storyboard became a thing of the past, the word remained in use as it was relevant for better understanding. The word ‘port’ was especially useful in ensuring less room for misinterpretation during interactions, which was crucial, especially in oceans where operations were intricate and teeming with dangers. This linguistic tradition reveals the interconnectedness with the old ways of steering a vessel in trying to do both practical approaches and standardization of a nautical language.
Evolution from “larboard” to “port”
Throughout history, the term “larboard” has gradually been replaced by “port.” This all started mainly due to the desire of sailors to reduce the problems of speaking on board the ship. When referring to the left side of the vessel’s direction, “larboard” was employed, which was opposed to “starboard,” which referred to the right side. Still, confusion often arose because of the pronunciation of the words “larboard” and “starboard,” which sounded very similar, especially during storms or busy sailing times. By the mid-19th century, “port” was adopted as the standard term for the left side. The term likely is how vessels were docked to protect the starboard fixed on the right side.
As comprehension of the world expanded and, consequentially, the scope of maritime operations increased, so did communication precision, which needed to be on point. The transition to the terminology of “port” was officially implemented by the British Admiralty in 1844 and was followed by the rest of the World. These accurate communications would relieve misunderstandings among sailors who spoke multiple languages. Without the transition, navigation and maritime engineering would have remained daunting.
How can you remember which side is port?
One interesting fact is that one can never forget that the port side is the vessel’s left side by comparing the pronunciation of the words “port” and “left,” which have four letters. Also, it helps to remember that both “port” and “red,” the color of the navigation light for the port side, begin with an “R.” One can always picture a ship’s red navigation light positioned to the left to cement this association in mind further.
Another association one can make is the phrase “the ship left the port,” where the word “left” is associated with the port. These simple memory aids are common among maritime professionals to reduce the risk of errors and ensure clear communication during cruising and communication.
Mnemonic devices for port and starboard
The other association that proves helpful while distinguishing port from starboard is the number of alphabets each word has. The words “port” and “left” are both four letters and therefore can be combined while there is no such similarity with “starboard” and “right”. Also, “port” is associated more with the place on the dining table where the port wine, which was always held in red bottles, would be placed during formal dinner events, and a further shot connects the left side with a red color.
It may be easier to understand starboard as a steering board or ‘starboard’ placed onto the right of ancient vessels or ships. This was the case because, previously, ships were steered employing this board rather than the modern central rudder. Such sayings, coupled with frequent rehearsals, help eliminate the chances of communication errors occurring during navigation and ensuring that the required maritime measures are followed.
Color associations: Red for port
The rationale behind coloring the port side is part of the navigation practice developed over the years, which all maritime states have now adopted as rules through COLREGs. In this case, the color red is applied to the port side of the ship’s navigation light so that it can be easily distinguished from the opposite side, which is green in color. Red and green are, therefore, consistent with the general rules about visual-on-visual contrast and assist mariners in recognizing the arrangement of other ships in conditions of little or no light.
There are several reasons why the red-green color code for maritime buoys and vessels has emerged throughout history. The color red and its variations are easily visible even from long distances and, therefore, tend to be used in the design of ships on their port side. This creates awareness of the port’s location, which is crucial when a standard red signal is used on the port side alarm system. Adopting these color codes and standard signals to the red port light continues to evolve as one of the most effective communication methods on the sea. It ensures a smooth flow of traffic on the waters.
Practical tips for novice boaters
For a recreational boater, some forehand knowledge of standard maritime operations and navigation signage is critical in ensuring everyone stays safe on the water. To begin, familiarization with the “C rules,” which consist of right-of-way rules and even some basic color-bearing rules, is essential. For example, one should remember the phrase “Red Right Returning,” indicating that passing red buoys on the boat’s port side should be to the left when returning from the sea. Also, find out how to use colored lights on the ship to navigate at night to prevent collisions.
Safety always comes first; therefore, put on a correctly sized lifejacket and ensure that other required safety devices are available on board and in good working condition, such as fire extinguishers and visual and sound distress signals. Work on your anchoring skills in flat seas and familiarize yourself with plotting out your journeys using charts and GPS. Quite significantly, look at the weather radio or updates before you leave, and don’t drive any boat after drinking alcohol or taking drugs since this considerably heightens the chances of an accident.
What are the navigation rules related to the port side?
When a person is facing forward, the left side of a vessel is known as the port side, and it is subject to some rules so that construction and order are maintained on water. The interchanging navigational instructions state that if two vessels approach each other head-on, then at least 1 of the two boats should steer to their right, the starboard side, for both ships to pass without colliding. This practice reduces ambiguities and chances of vessels colliding. Also, any boat trying to pass a different vessel moving in the same direction should always pass on that vessel’s left side unless there are other conditions or inflow signals.
Besides, during nighttime or low-visibility weather conditions, it helps distinguish the vessel’s port side. Different colors are used to show the directional aspects of the ship. Such color coding improves the identification of the vessels’ position and the course of other vessels. These prescriptions must be followed to ensure the safety of sea navigation and proper interaction between the ships.
Right of way rules involving port side
In the case of the port side involving the right of way, the International Legislation guiding Collision at Sea (COLREGs) must be considered. As per those rules, where two powerboats cross each other, the ensuing conditions dictate who has to give way to whom. Hence, the starboard-riding vessel hails from the port side and enjoys precedence, meaning it should regulate her speed and even direction. This is because the port-sided boat hails from the stand-on vessel and so is a “give-way vessel,” which is erratic and must steer behind the stand-on vessel to avert a clash.
In competing sailboats, the right-of-way rule is coupled with position-based priority based on the wind’s direction. A port tack vessel (where the wind is coming from the port side) shall give way to a starboard tack vessel (with the wind hitting the starboard side). Moreover, when two boats are on the same tack, the leeward vessel, which is the furthest from the wind, shall be obliged to give way to the windward boat. These rules serve the purpose of assisting in establishing a uniform practice for mariners, promoting the prevention of chaos and collisions at sea.
Port-to-port passing protocol
The port-to-port passing system is one of the primary rules of maritime navigation concerning the rules of approaching vessels to each other. Following this rule, every vessel, however, should sail on the port side, that is, the left-hand side of the other boat, thus making the directions a bit unmistakable on the waters. It is an ideal rule for use only if two ships sail away from each other or nearly as it lessens the chances of colliding. As a rule, vessels use sound signals to reach their purpose; for a port-to-port pass, one short blast of the horn, around 1 second long, is used to signal out.
It must be emphasized to the captains that following these rules and looking out is essential, especially in areas of congestion or reduced visibility. The orderly passing of the vessels must be confirmed and agreed upon by both ships to avoid any meal between them. Though the standards prevail for this arrangement, the dominant plan remains port to port, while tactical necessities such as tight waterways, weather, or other factors may override such standards. Respecting such rules also obeys the law of safety and ensures other known principles of sea navigation.
Navigation in narrow channels
The failure to comply with these requirements and recommendations would compromise the safety of the vessels navigating the narrow channel. As per Rule 9 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea or the rules of the road, ships that navigate the course of a narrow channel or fairway are expected to retain as close only reasonably safe and practical to the outer boundary on its starboard half. In addition, vessels less than 20 meters, sailing vessels, and fishing boats must comply with the duty to refrain from interfering with the navigation of larger vessels that can only shift within a channel.
Some of the essential technical parameters related to safety whilst underway include ensuring a suitable under-keel clearance (usually 30% of the vessel’s draft but more in areas with an extensive range of tides), allowing for slow speed control that provides sufficient battling capability without excessive wash, and observing the recommended lateral clearance, which may vary however, a minimum of 1.5 – 2 times the beam of the largest vessel is often required. Communication is paramount—vessels should inform each other on VHF radio, and all parties should follow the intended maneuvering signals. Also, a good appreciation of the surroundings, aided by radar, AIS, and visual observations, is necessary for the safety of navigation in such constrained waterway systems.
How does understanding the port side improve boating safety?
It is critical to comprehend the port side of a vessel, which is the left side facing the bow. This is useful in maintaining safe navigation and observing all countries’ maritime laws. Also, it is commonplace to use the correct left-hand side of the ship in right-of-way traffic rules, such as when yielding to vessels around the starboard side. This further enhances avoided vessel traffic conflicts.
Some navigational aids, such as lateral buoy systems, also utilize the distinction between port (red) and starboard (green) to mark safe routes for vessels. It is essential to be aware of these visual signals and act accordingly to minimize the likelihood of vessel collisions and groundings in congested channels or limited visibility conditions. Therefore, the knowledge of the port side is substantial in contributing to the situational awareness of the vessels, thus enhancing safer boating practices.
Importance in collision avoidance
Having monotonic indicators such as port and starboard also has a significant role in avoiding vessel collisions. The vessel commander is given a standard on which to base his/ her navigational decision. The vessels also adhere to the rules about where to steer. For example, they cross each other’s course on the opposite side of the port side, reducing uncertainty when the two vessels approach each other. Furthermore, when visibility is poor, or during the night, it is possible to tell the location and orientation of the piloted ship by looking at the port (left) and starboard (right) lights.
The need to adhere to collision regulations, such as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), makes distinguishing between port and starboard more meaningful. The COLREGs provide specific rules on the right of way that depend on these designations, thus providing uniform behavior in maritime traffic. Proper training and understanding of such principles are vital for operators because they enhance safety and operational efficiency, reduce the chances of accidents, and shield human life and cargo at sea.
Communication with other vessels
Communicating effectively with other vessels is a vital factor in promoting maritime safety. This usage encompasses visual and sound signals and communication over the very high frequency (VHF) radio system. For example, navigation lights, flags, day shapes, and other day signals show the vessel’s position, operation, and intentions. Sound signals composed of short and long blasts of a ship’s horn or whistle indicate changes in position in tight areas and/or poor visibility. Both measures are prescribed by international regulations for the prevention of collisions at sea (C.O.L.R.E.G.) to help ensure uniformity and easy understanding in communication between the vessels.
VHF channels help in improving coordination as different vessels can communicate promptly. Other conventions, like the maritime one, use a specific frequency to transmit messages in case of danger or working traffic communication, thereby alleviating congestion in the communication system. However, all the operators need to be aware of communication etiquette, simple language, or vice communication, and be mindful of the context to avoid miscommunication. These custom tools and timely, concise communication further anticipate risks, minimize the chances of misunderstandings, and facilitate quick responses during demanding navigating situations.
Docking and maneuvering considerations
Moving and docking a ship demands the ship handler to have a complete picture of the environment, the ship’s attributes, and the operating conditions. Wind strength and direction, current effects, water depth, and the configuration of the dock structure are vital. All these parameters rely on the pilots’ assessment. For example, if a vessel decides to carry out docking in the strong side wind, a helpful method would be to throttle the ship appropriately and, if available, use the bow thrusters to counteract lateral drift that may occur.
Several factors, such as the minimum approach speed of the vessel during docking, spanning 0.5 to 1.5 knots, and the recommended distance from the pier, which is suggested to be at least 1.5X the vessel’s beam, are essential for effective maneuvers. Auxiliary safety measures such as proper fendering and pre-assigning of mooring lines result in a small striking force and structural integrity. More tools for successful docking attempts include navigational aids and the assistance of the individuals who work on the dock to facilitate the process.
References
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between port and starboard?
A: Port refers to the left side of a boat or ship when facing forward, while starboard refers to the right side. These terms are used to avoid confusion between left and right, which can change depending on your face on the vessel.
Q: Why are “port” and “starboard” used instead of left and right?
A: The terms port and starboard are used because they remain constant regardless of an observer’s orientation on the ship. This standardization helps prevent confusion in nautical communication, especially in critical situations where quick and accurate directions are essential.
Q: How can I remember which side is port and which is starboard?
A: A common mnemonic to remember port is that both “port” and “left” have four letters. Another way is to remember that “port” and “red” (the color of port navigation lights) both have three letters. For starboard, you can associate it with “right,” as they both have more letters than their counterparts.
Q: What is the origin of the term “starboard”?
A: The term “starboard” comes from Old English “storyboard,” meaning “steering side.” In ancient times, ships were steered using a steering oar on the right side of the vessel, hence the name “starboard” for the right side of a boat.
Q: How are port and starboard indicated on a boat?
A: Port and starboard are typically indicated by navigation lights: red for port and green for starboard. Additionally, the port side of a ship often has odd-numbered cabins or rooms, while the starboard side has even-numbered ones.
Q: What is the importance of understanding port and starboard in navigation?
A: Understanding port and starboard is crucial for effective communication in navigation, especially when giving or receiving directions. It helps avoid collisions, maneuver in tight spaces, and follow maritime rules and regulations.
Q: Are port and starboard terms used only on large ships?
A: No, port and starboard are used on all types of watercraft, from small pleasure boats to large commercial ships. These terms are universal in the maritime world and are essential for consistent communication regardless of vessel size.
Q: How do port and starboard relate to the front of a boat?
A: When determining port and starboard, always orient yourself as if facing the boat’s front (bow). From this perspective, the port is always on your left, and the starboard is always on your right, regardless of where you’re standing on the vessel.
Q: What are the port and starboard lights on a boat used for?
A: Port and starboard lights indicate a vessel’s orientation to other boats, especially at night. The port side displays a red light, while the starboard side shows a green light. This allows other vessels to determine which direction a boat moves and helps prevent collisions.
