Which side of the cruise ship has the best views?

For many, views are the biggest factor when choosing a cruise stateroom. On scenic itineraries, such as Norwegian fjords, Alaska cruises or Mediterranean coastal sailings, one side of the ship may spend longer facing dramatic landscapes. As a general rule, it’s important to research the direction in which your cruise will be travelling, as different routes can offer entirely different perspectives. Some cruise lines rotate the ship during scenic cruising to ensure guests on both sides enjoy the fantastic views, but this isn’t always guaranteed. If panoramic scenery is your priority, talking to a Trailfinders cruise specialist can make all the difference.

Which side of the cruise ship gets the sunlight?

Sunlight can play an important role in picking the best side of the ship, particularly if you’ve booked an oceanview or balcony stateroom. The amount of sun you’ll receive depends on both your sailing direction and hemisphere - ships travelling north in the Northern Hemisphere often receive more afternoon and evening sun on the port side, while people sailing southbound may favour starboard for warmer light later in the day. If you’re an early riser who loves to enjoy a coffee as the sun rises, choose the side facing east during most sailing days. Those who’d rather admire the setting sun with a cocktail in hand should opt for the side likely to face west. For sunbathers, it’s the side with the sunniest exposure, while those cruising in hotter climates might prefer a shadier stateroom for cooler afternoons.

Will you see the port?

Many guests enjoy watching ships arrive in harbour or waking up to destination views from their balcony. While choosing a particular side of the cruise ship may increase your chances of facing the port, the docking positions may vary due to weather conditions and local regulations. It’s best to view this as an added perk rather than a guarantee.

What about a round-trip cruise?

If you’re on a round-trip cruise, the choice between port and starboard becomes far less important as the ship typically retraces part of its route on the return journey, meaning each side enjoys similar scenery and sunlight at different stages of the voyage.

So, which side of the cruise ship should you choose?

In short, there is no universal answer. The best choice for you depends on your itinerary and personal travel style. The good news is that modern cruise ships offer spectacular viewing areas throughout, meaning unforgettable moments await whichever side you select. Whichever side you select, cruising offers relaxed exploration and the unique joy of discovering the world at sea, one destination at a time.

Port vs Starboard: Choosing the Best Side of the Cruise Ship

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Cruise liner ship in ocean with blue water - Aerial top view — Port vs Starboard: Choosing the Best Side of the Cruise Ship

By Alex Moseley

Whether a first-time cruiser or a seasoned veteran, you’ve probably asked the question when choosing your stateroom: which side of the cruise ship is best, port or starboard? The answer depends largely on your itinerary and what you hope to experience at sea, as making the right decision can greatly enhance your cruising experience.

Read on for our guide to choosing the best side of the cruise ship.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Cruise Holidays page.

Written by Alex Moseley

Alex is a Content Executive based in our Kensington head office. Alex has worked at Trailfinders since 2023 and has travelled to 22 countries. His favourite destinations include Egypt, Barbados, Italy and Australia.

@trailfindersofficial