Gem Docking at Naval Dock Yard Question

[Sea saw 56]

We are looking at a mid-April cruise on the Gem, wondering if there is a “normal” side of the ship that faces the dock/town side at that location, that time of year.  Trying to decide whether to book starboard or port.

[Charles4515]

3 minutes ago, Sea saw 56 said:

We are looking at a mid-April cruise on the Gem, wondering if there is a “normal” side of the ship that faces the dock/town side at that location, that time of year.  Trying to decide whether to book starboard or port.

There is not a normal side that any ship faces at the Dockyard. Ships can dock either port or starboard. There are different factors involved, maintenance (painting) testing lifeboats, and wind speed and direction on the day the ship arrives that go into whether a ship docks port side or starboard side there. 

[Sea saw 56]

Thank you 4515, just checking.  Will roll the dice 😌

[latebloomer56]

On 1/14/2023 at 5:29 PM, Sea saw 56 said:

Thank you 4515, just checking.  Will roll the dice 😌

Both side have it's advantages. Love the quiet of facing away from the dock, but depending on time of day and even time of year found balcony unused because of the strong sun. Facing the dock you can people watch, check out crowds nice at night as well.

Aft is still my personal favorite though.

[1025cruise]

I cruised twice last year to Bermuda on the Pearl. The first time, we were docked starboard side, the second time port. 

[latebloomer56]

10 hours ago, 1025cruise said:

I cruised twice last year to Bermuda on the Pearl. The first time, we were docked starboard side, the second time port. 

How did you like the Pearl? We sail on her for the first time in April been on Gem three times told about the same. Most trip have been on the Dawn to Bermuda.

[1025cruise]

I had an enjoyable time. Haven't been on the Gem to compare. Did the Dawn quite a few years ago. While not the same, I'll just say similar.

[ClarkBHM]

Actually had a ship turn around on day 2 while we were away. Best of both worlds I guess?

 

[Sea saw 56]

One of the things we love about cruising is waking up to a different view all the time.

Turning the ship would be great!!!  

Thank you Clark, we will have to send a "passenger request" to the bridge if we get bored with our view 🤣