Port Or Starboard On A Cruise Ship
Going on a cruise is an excellent way to see the world while being pampered and entertained. But when it comes to choosing between port or starboard cabins, it can be a bit confusing. Every seasoned cruiser has their preference, and many factors come into play while making your choice. From what you can see from your cabin to the direction of the sun in the sky, both port and starboard cabins have their unique advantages. In this article, we will walk you through the different aspects to consider while choosing between a port and starboard cabin on a cruise ship.
Port Side Cabins on a Cruise Ship
Firstly, let's talk about port side cabins on a cruise ship. Port side cabins are on the left side of the ship, and they are named after the port where the captain usually docks the vessel. One of the most significant advantages of having a port side cabin is that it offers spectacular views of the port when you dock at different destinations. You can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the port, watch as other ships come and go and the crew load and unload cargo.
Another advantage of a port side cabin is that you may have better views of the sunset. While sailing towards the west, the port side cabin will give you a perfect view of the sunset, making it an ideal choice for the evening cocktail enthusiasts who want to enjoy the view while sipping on their favorite drink.
However, one disadvantage of a port side cabin is that it may not have the best views when navigating open waters. This is because cabins on the port side will often face the opposite direction of land when leaving a port, giving you a view of open water instead of land. Moreover, when the ship is making a starboard turn, you may miss out on some of the sights on the starboard side due to the cabin's placement.
Starboard Side Cabins on a Cruise Ship
Starboard side cabins are located on the right side of the ship, opposite to the port side cabin. One of the significant advantages of the starboard side cabin is that it offers stunning views when the ship is navigating through open waters, providing an unobstructed view of the sea. Additionally, if you're a fan of early morning sunrises, then a starboard cabin is the perfect choice for you. As the sun rises in the east, you will get a front-row view from your cabin.
Another advantage of having a starboard cabin is that you may have better views of the moon and stars at night. As the ship moves towards the west, the starboard side will allow you to witness the moon and stars in the sky.
However, while having better views of the sea, the starboard side cabin may not be the best option when docked at a port. You may have limited or no view of the port from your cabin, depending on the port's orientation and the ship's placement. Additionally, you may miss out on the sunset views when the ship is sailing towards the west.
Factors to Consider While Choosing Between Port and Starboard Cabins
While choosing between port or starboard cabins, several factors come into play. Some of the most important aspects to consider are:
Itinerary
The first factor to consider is the itinerary of the cruise. If your itinerary includes more port visits than sea days, a port side cabin may be the best choice. However, if your itinerary has more sea days than port visits, then a starboard cabin may be a better option.
Cabin Category
The category of the cabin you are booking also plays an important role in choosing between port or starboard cabins. If you are booking a balcony or suite, views become an essential factor. However, if you are booking an inside or ocean view cabin, the port or starboard choice may not matter as much.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions such as wind, rain, and sun can also affect your cabin choice. If you are sensitive to sunlight and want to avoid direct sunlight in the cabin, a port side cabin may be preferable if you're sailing west. A starboard cabin may be better if you're sailing east.
Budget
The final factor to consider is your budget. Usually, starboard cabins are slightly more expensive than portside cabins due to their better views.
Conclusion
Choosing between a port or starboard cabin on a cruise ship comes with its set of advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences as a traveler, the itinerary of the cruise, and your budget. By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the perfect cabin that suits your needs and preferences.