What is the term for a vessel's right side when facing forward?

The term for a vessel's right side when facing forward is indeed "starboard." When navigating a vessel, the orientation is always based on the person at the helm facing towards the front of the ship, which is referred to as the bow. The right side, as you face the bow, is designated as starboard, while the left side is called port. This terminology is critical for clear communication and safety at sea, as it eliminates ambiguity when describing directions or positions on the vessel.

In contrast, aft refers to the rear part of the vessel, and bow indicates the front. Understanding these terms is essential for effective navigation and crew coordination onboard any maritime vessel.