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East Dorset Sailing Club
Celebrating 150 years - 1875 - 2025

Advent Calendar 2025 – Day 23

Posh

This term is thought to be an acronym for “Port Out, Starboard Home,” referring to the most desirable cabins on ships traveling between Britain and India during the colonial era. These cabins, located on the port side on the outward journey and the starboard side on the return, were shaded from the sun’s intense heat—a crucial feature in the days before air conditioning. Reserved for wealthier passengers, these accommodations gave rise to the modern use of “posh”.

Written by Lindsey