What is the Helm Onboard a Boat? Sailing Definitions

What is the Helm Onboard a Boat?

What is the helm onboard a boat?

On a boat, the helm is a tiller or wheel used by the captain to steer the boat, which is typically located towards the back center of the boat, near the stern.

You might remember hearing someone say “take the helm” in reference to a person taking charge or leadership in a business context before. That’s because the helm is where the ship’s direction is controlled, and what the helmsman does will determine the direction of the boat, and in some cases, (especially if the helmsman is also the captain), how the boat is operated.

Next: Helms a lee

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