Which Side of the Ship?
Port or starboard matters less on a river than you think. Here is why.
Get Free Quotes on the Cabin You Want“Which side of the ship should I book?” is one of the most common cabin questions on ocean cruises. On a river cruise, the honest answer is usually: it matters less than you think. Here is why, and the few times it does matter.
Why the “Best Side” Keeps Changing
- Upstream and downstream. The same ship sails the same river in both directions on different departures, so the “castle side” on one cruise is the other side on the next.
- Docking. A ship may tie up with either side against the riverbank, depending on the port and the current.
- Rafting. In busy ports, ships often moor side by side, two or three abreast. If yours is on the inside, your window may look straight into another ship’s cabin for the evening. Draw the curtains and head ashore.
- Scenery on both banks. Rivers are narrow. In the Rhine Gorge or the Wachau, both banks are lined with vineyards, villages and castles.
When the Side Can Matter
There are some cases where it is worth looking at a map:
- A one-way itinerary where the signature sight — a city skyline, a particular abbey or castle — is clearly on one bank as you sail past.
- A cruise with an evening sailing through a city, such as Budapest, where you want the illuminated landmarks from your cabin.
- A cabin location that faces a quay or a road when docked in your embarkation city for the first night.
Even then, the sun deck and lounge give everyone the view. Treat the side as a tiebreaker, not a deal-breaker.
What Matters More Than the Side
Deck level, cabin type and what is above and below you affect your stay far more than port or starboard. If you are choosing between two cabins on opposite sides, pick the one further from the bar, the engine and the elevator. Read more on choosing a deck.
A Quick Tip for Docking Days
If your cabin faces another ship while rafted, use the time ashore or on the sun deck. Moorings are usually only for part of the day, and the next morning’s sailing often brings the open river back to your window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I book port or starboard on a Rhine cruise?
On a Rhine Gorge day, castles appear on both banks, so either side gets plenty. Many guests watch the most scenic stretch from the sun deck anyway.
Can I request a side when I book?
Usually you choose a specific cabin, and with it a side. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise can request or select a cabin on the side you want if it is available.
Pick Your Cabin With an Expert
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will look at the itinerary and the deck plan and suggest the best cabin location.
Get Cabin Advice