Port Quarter

The after part of a vessel’s port side, or the relative direction abaft the port beam.

As a structural location it lies towards the stern on the left when facing forward. As a lookout report, an object on the port quarter lies in the sector between approximately abeam and astern to port.

The directional reference moves with the vessel. Because superstructure, sails or steering position can create a blind sector astern, lookout and reports should include the contact’s bearing, range and movement where relevant.

Nautical Terminology

Aspect Terminology