Get unlimited access to the best of MySeaTime for less than ₹100/week. Become a member

Members only

Why Captain’s cabin is always on starboard side ?

42

There are many questions in shipping industry which seem to be mysteries  of the ancient shipping times with as many theories floating. And one of these question is “Why Captain’s cabin is always on Starboard side?” Here is what I have gathered during my sea career.

Captain’s cabin on the starboard side is a tradition that has been since many years but there has been some exceptions to it where captain’s cabin is on port side. Leaving aside the exceptions, in old days, the starboard side was considered superior to port side in every sense, be it flag etiquettes or two watch system in old days where more experienced staff used to keep watch on starboard side, the starboard side was considered superior to port side. Captain being overall incharge of the ship was considered superior to all the crew onboard and was given superior side of the ship.

porthole_opt

In modern days however it is not superiority that is considered for captain cabin to starboard side. Starboard side is give way side in ROR (Rule of the road) and captain is expected to see the traffic on starboard side of his ship just to be aware of the traffic situation where it is his ship’s duty to take action. He can then also monitor if the officer on watch has taken the required action to avoid close quarter situation.

Do you have any other theory  or do you agree with this explanation ?  Do you have any other such question ? Leave a comment.

Meanwhile wishing you all fair winds and following seas.

Join now to access this article and much more.

Admin has placed this article behind a paywall, making it accessible only with a paid membership, which offers numerous perks:

  • Contribute to creating a platform for reading and writing without ads.
  • Enjoy all content here, including exclusive articles for members.
  • Gain access to all exclusive articles for members.

More like this

In blog, Marine Conventions

IMO set 2020 as the low sulphur compliance date and other stories of October 2016

Each month we post the main happenings of the shipping industry. Here is the 3rd edition of this newsletter which…

In blog, Ship Navigation

How to Install ENCs on Furuno ECDIS- Step by Step Guide

Honest Question: Do you like navigating on paperless ships ? I am not usually a betting man, but I’d wager…

In blog, Cargo Operation

Cargo Sampling on chemical tankers: What when and How to do

There is no doubt that bill of lading is the most important aspect of commercial shipping. In my view the…

In blog, Ship Navigation

Infographic: Actions required in restricted visibility as per COLREG rule 19

Actions required in restricted visibility can be confusing. With this infographic, I try to simplify the action required in restricted visibility…

In blog, Ship Safety & Security

Infographic: How to Wear SCBA in Correct Way

SCBA (Self contained breathing apparatus) is an important equipment on board. We may not get to use it frequently but…

In blog, Ship Navigation

Be in Command by Knowing These ECDIS Safety Settings

ECDIS has been the talk of the town. On every inspection on board, compliance with ECDIS procedures has been top…