Cruising: Can Ships Dock on Either Side?

The Port and Starboard Sides

Can cruise ships dock on either the port or starboard side? The answer is no. Cruise ships will dock on either the port or starboard side, depending on the location of the docks.

Port Side or Starboard Side?

The first and most common type of debarkation is docking. This is when a vessel ties up at a pier and cruisers exit the ship via a gangway. The side of the ship that docks at the pier is determined by the location of the pier. If the pier is on the left side of the ship, the ship will dock on the port side. If the pier is on the right side of the ship, the ship will dock on the starboard side.

There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some cruise ships have two gangways, one on each side of the ship. This allows the ship to dock on either side of the pier, regardless of the location of the pier. Additionally, some cruise ships have a "floating dock" that can be moved to either side of the ship. This also allows the ship to dock on either side of the pier.

If you are unsure of which side of the ship will be docking at the pier, you can always check with your cruise line. They will be able to provide you with the specific requirements for the ports on your sailing.