Starboard vs Port Side: Which Cruise Cabin Side Is Better?

When planning a cruise, choosing the starboard vs port side of the ship might seem like a minor detail—but it can subtly influence your onboard experience. While cabin layouts are virtually the same on both sides, your view, sun exposure, and even photo opportunities can vary depending on your route and direction of travel.

Whether you're heading to Alaska, the Mediterranean, or the Caribbean, this guide breaks down the practical differences between starboard vs port side so you can choose the best cabin location for your next voyage.

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Starboard vs Port Side on Sunrise and Sunset Views

The side of the ship you choose can determine whether you wake up to a golden sunrise or unwind with a sweeping sunset. This depends on the direction your ship is sailing.

For example, on eastbound or southbound cruises, port side cabins generally face the rising sun, offering beautiful morning light. In contrast, starboard cabins on these routes are ideal for watching the sunset over the ocean.

On westbound or northbound cruises, it flips—starboard gets the sunrise, and port captures the sunset. If catching these moments from your balcony matters to you, this can be a deciding factor when booking.

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Starboard vs Port Side on Coastal Scenery

For itineraries that hug scenic coastlines—such as Alaska, Norway, or the Mediterranean—the side of the ship you choose can impact your private views.

On northbound or westbound one-way cruises, the port side often faces the shore, providing close-up views of fjords, cliffs, or islands.

For southbound or eastbound sailings, the starboard side typically gets more coastline exposure. While captains usually rotate the ship during key scenic moments so all passengers can enjoy the view, having a cabin on the "right" side can offer more consistent sights from your balcony.

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Starboard vs Port Side on Docking Views

Many travelers hope for a picturesque view when their ship is docked in port—but which side delivers that depends entirely on how the ship docks.

Cruise ships can berth on either side depending on port layout, weather conditions, or traffic, meaning there’s no guaranteed advantage to being on the starboard or port side. In some cases, you might face the pier, a cargo terminal, or even another cruise ship.

In others, you could have an open view of the sea or coastline. Since docking orientation is unpredictable, it’s best not to base your cabin choice solely on potential port views.

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Starboard vs Port Side on Cabin Layout and Comfort

When it comes to cabin size, layout, and overall comfort, there’s no difference between the starboard and port sides of a cruise ship. Cabins on both sides are built to mirror each other, offering the same dimensions, furnishings, and features.

Noise levels and motion experience are also comparable, especially if you’re on a mid-ship deck. Factors like deck height, proximity to elevators, or whether your cabin is near high-traffic areas will have a far greater impact on your comfort than which side of the ship you choose.

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Starboard vs Port Side on Sun Exposure During the Day

If you enjoy basking in the sun or prefer a shaded balcony, knowing how the sun moves in relation to your ship's direction can help guide your choice.

On westbound cruises, the starboard side tends to receive more afternoon sun, while eastbound itineraries favor the port side for extended sunlight.

This can be a subtle but meaningful difference if you plan to spend time on your balcony. However, factors like the ship’s position at sea and the time of year can also affect how much sun each side gets throughout the day.

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Final Thoughts

The difference between starboard vs port side may not be dramatic for most cruisers, but knowing how each side can subtly shape your experience makes for a more informed booking. Whether you're chasing sunrises, hoping for scenic coastlines, or simply maximizing balcony time, choosing the right side can add an extra touch of enjoyment to your voyage.

While both sides offer equal comfort and amenities, your itinerary and personal preferences can make one side slightly more rewarding than the other. When in doubt, consider your route and what kind of views or lighting you’d like to enjoy most—then book accordingly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the easiest way to remember port vs starboard?

A simple trick: “Port” and “left” both have four letters. Also, “starboard” has more R’s—think “right.”

2. Does it matter which side I choose for an interior cabin?

Not really. Since interior cabins don’t have windows or balconies, the side doesn’t impact the experience much.

3. Which side is better for seasickness?

Neither. Seasickness is more about location on the ship (midship, lower decks) than port or starboard side.

4. Can I request a specific side when booking?

Yes, most cruise lines let you choose your cabin location—including port or starboard—if you book early or opt for a specific room.

5. Is one side quieter than the other?

Generally, no. Noise levels depend more on the cabin’s proximity to elevators, entertainment venues, or crew areas than which side it’s on.