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 Engineering, Ship Navigation

GMDSS Batteries: Tests and checks mariners must know

GMDSS batteries provide power to GMDSS equipments in case ship’s main as well as emergency power fail. The requirement of…

In blog, Ship Navigation

10 ECDIS questions SIRE inspectors ask and how to deal with it?

I cannot tell you how much do I enjoy writing on ECDIS. I truly feel that ECDIS has made the…

In blog

Declaring Emergency: Important lessons for seafarers from air crash investigation

Have you been following the news about the disappearance of Malaysian Airline MH370? I am one among millions who agree…

In blog, Marine Engineering, Ship Navigation

Are your emergency & GMDSS batteries in good shape ?

Emergency batteries as well as GMDSS batteries onboard serve an important function. During a black out, emergency generator need some power…

In blog

This is How QHSE Department Can Contribute to the Success of Company

If your company is doing well, a larger part of its credit has to go to QHSE department of the company.…

In blog, Marine Conventions, Ship Safety & Security

Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR) : What It Is And How To Ensure Compliance ?

  If I ask you, who is the registered owner of your ship, will you be able to get this…