A sideboy is a member of an even-numbered group of seamen posted in two rows at the quarterdeck when a visiting dignitary boards or leaves the ship, historically to help (or even hoist) him aboard, presently as a ceremonial guard of honour, in a ceremony known as tending the Side. Sideboys are instructed by the piping of the Boatswain's Mate. The Quarterdeck is a ceremonial location on a weatherdeck of the ship, usually at the location of the accommodation (boarding) ladder or brow.