Perhaps because the design of Nordic ships put the rudder on one side of the
ship? I am told the term starboard came from steer-board so perhaps this is
why the other side would be the back-board? I'm only speculating of
course....

-Craig

>
> 3) bakborð in "Frá Fornjóti" - I've transtated it as "back board" =
> stern. But it seems, bakborð is LEFT (or RIGHT, I don't remember
> exactly) side of a ship!
>