When are side boys paraded?

Side boys are paraded during scheduled official visits to honor dignitaries and senior officials. This traditional naval custom reflects respect and protocol, underlining the importance of the visitor, whether they are a high-ranking officer or an official guest. It is a ceremonial practice where sailors stand at attention on either side of the vessel or entrance area, saluting as the guests arrive and depart.

In this context, other scenarios, such as emergencies, holiday celebrations, or training exercises, do not typically warrant the formality of a side boys parade. While emergencies require rapid response and do not align with the ceremonial aspects of side boys, holiday celebrations may have their own forms of recognition but do not involve side boys. Similarly, training exercises focus on operational readiness and skill development, lacking the ceremonial significance tied to official visits.