What Are the 4 Sides of a Boat Called?

Boats are an incredible invention that have been used for centuries for transportation, fishing, and leisure activities. They come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own unique features.

One of the most important aspects of a boat is its sides. The sides of a boat play a significant role in its stability and functionality. In this article, we will discuss the four sides of a boat and their names.

Port Side
The port side of a boat is the left-hand side when you are standing at the back of the boat, facing towards the bow (front). You can remember this by thinking that “port” and “left” both have four letters. The port side is often marked with a red light at night.

Starboard Side
The starboard side of a boat is the right-hand side when you are standing at the back of the boat, facing towards the bow (front). You can remember this by thinking that “starboard” has more letters than “port,” so it must be on the right-hand side. The starboard side is often marked with a green light at night.

Bow
The bow is the front part of the boat. It is also known as the forepart or forward section. When you hear someone say “bow,” they are referring to the front part of the boat.

Stern
The stern is the back part of the boat. It is also known as the aft section or rear end. When you hear someone say “stern,” they are referring to the back part of the boat.

It’s essential to know these terms because they come in handy when communicating with others on board or with other boaters on open waterways. For example, if someone says, “There’s debris on our port side,” you’d know that it’s on your left-hand side.

In conclusion, understanding the sides of a boat and their names can help make boating safer and more enjoyable. Remember, port is left, starboard is right, bow is front, and stern is back. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively and navigate with ease.

Photo of author

Michael Allen