You’re suggesting that people avoid using port and starboard on a boat because they should be focused on learning how to not fall overboard?
Terms like “port” and “starboard” are particularly important when someone falls overboard. The last thing you want to do is tell someone to grab the man overboard “on the right side” and have them go to the wrong side of the boat in a crucial moment. This is why these things exist. We have been sailing for hundreds of years and are very good at it.
Despite this, your entire argument is a bit ridiculous. It is not zero sum- port and starboard do not take up “brain space” that causes you to forget a life jacket. Boat training will help you ensure the safety of the passengers AND teach you “port” and “starboard”.
When I was doing my original boating license, again the practical part on water was about 20 minutes (starting / stopping and saving somebody from water)
I had much more road practice in my road driving license included, and there wasn't anything unnecessary taught there, I still use 90% of the things taught then when I am driving.
These are the most common reason of fatalities:
- Not wearing a lifejacket or PFD.
- Falling overboard.
- Capsizing, swamping, sinking, or running aground.
- Being involved in a collision.
- Operating a pleasure craft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The goal of the license should be helping these people, not experienced ones, who anyways have more advanced license, not just the basic ones.