Home port

A vessel's home port is the port at which it is based, which may not be the same as its port of registry[1] shown on its registration documents[2] and lettered on the stern of the ship's hull.

[3] In the cruise industry the term "home port" is also often used in reference to the port in which a ship will take on / change over the majority of its passengers while taking on stores, supplies and fuel.

[4] In a navy, a ship's home port is the port best suited to provide maintenance and restock weaponry particular to ships of that class and build.

On conclusion of a tour of duty, a combat vessel returning to port will usually return to its home port.

[citation needed] A single home port also makes it easier for family to visit sailors on leave.