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Last Updated on August 23, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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What Is The Helm of a Boat?
The helm of a boat is a critical component, serving as the central command station from which the vessel’s direction and speed are controlled. It encompasses the steering mechanism, the navigational instruments, and engine controls necessary for safely maneuvering the boat.
Key Takeaway
The helm is a boat’s center of command, where the captain controls the vessel’s speed. It includes the steering mechanism, navigational instruments, and engine controls.
Summary
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- The helm is also known as the pilot house or cockpit on some boats.
- Helm can refer to the tiller or wheel used for steering.
- An ideal helm station offers a good line of sight in all directions, easy access to instruments and controls, ergonomic seating, and storage for charts.
- Some essential features of a boat helm include:
- Line of sight: good visibility ahead, behind, and to the sides
- Instruments: easy to-scan navigation electronics and engine gauges
- Ergonomics: comfortable seating with proper support
- Deck access: easy access to side decks for crew members
- Ventilation: proper ventilation to keep the helm comfortable
- Charts: storage for both electronic and paper charts
Generally, there is a lot of vocabulary that not many people are conversant with in the boating world. This is partially related to mariners being isolated for long periods.
As a result, they came up with a common language different from the rest of society.
For this reason, there may be a unique word for everything in the boating world. Understanding the correct terms can help you comprehend what others might be communicating.
This article will discuss the helm of the boat. So, you better keep on reading.
Helm is the word used to refer to the space from which a boat is steered or commanded. This word comes from an antique English term meaning “rudder.”
In other words, the Helm of a boat is anything that is utilized to steer the boat. Ordinarily, a helm can be a wheel or a tiller. Thus, when a person requests you to “take the helm,” they mean that you’re in charge of “driving” the vessel.
Essential Features of a Boat Helm
The kind of boat, an express cruiser, a motor yacht, or a long-range trawler, will determine the required details. Below, have a look at a few essential features to consider:
Line of Sight
The best line of sight is 360 degrees. However, that’s seldom possible on a boat.
A reliable line of sight ahead, not only of the horizon but also of the water right at the front of the boat, is vital to circumvent debris noticed at the very last moment.
A line of sight by the side is also important to help you keep watch on other vessels that may be on a collision course.
Instruments
The navigation electronics and engine should be arranged so they can be easily scanned within the skipper’s line of sight. Moreover, all controls must be conveniently accessible.
Some things, as little as the location of the shifters, can become an annoyance if not well positioned and even deadly in the worst circumstances.
Ergonomics
Honestly, an uncomfortable helm seat can quickly become huge trouble in your butt. A bench seat can be OK for a coastal cruiser operating mainly in fair weather.
A bench can provide the opportunity for the skipper to enjoy companionship.
However, for an offshore passage, a better choice could be a dedicated helm chair with a foot platform and armrests to ensure that the skipper is sturdy in position without any troubles.
Companion seating, which requires the skipper to move each time someone is required to sit down or even get up, is an example of a bad layout.
Deck Access
Doors that lead to the side decks ought to be near the helm if there’s a plan to cruise short-handed and require handling lines. Nonetheless, the position of the helm seating must not hinder the crew from straightforward access.
Ventilation
Sport boats are usually furnished with vents in the dash to heat or cool the helm while opening overhead hatches and windows supply fresh air, making the helm comfortable.
Charts
You might have the most modern chart plotter; however, every boat ought to carry a collection of paper charts about the neighboring area as an alternative in case the electronics unexpectedly stop working.
Coastal boats can have a drawer to keep a chartbook. On the other hand, skippers going offshore will need a complete chart table plus flat stowage for more extensive charts.
Storage
Usually, it’s surprising that the instruments end up around the helm, though it’s all important.
From reading glasses to binoculars, a cup of coffee to a chart protractor, and a cell phone to pencils, you’ll require a space for these things that is safe in a seaway.
Every counter is supposed to have fiddles to keep things in position, and drawers also require positive latches.
Safety
Wisely positioned grab rails, either about the helm or on top, can supplement security while underway. The sole around the helm should be a non-slip surface, as your crew can come off wet decks.
Long Rangers
On cruising boats, shutting the helm section from the cabin lights at night is essential to allow the crew to utilize the galley or salon without diminishing the skipper’s night vision.
Additionally, it is crucial to possess a steadfast pilot berth within the pilothouse where a person can sleep. Conversely, the off-watch is helpful if the skipper requires another pair of eyes.
Lastly, positioning a head near the helm can be a wise touch.
Different Types of Boats with Different Helm Designs
San Juan 48
This is a Down East-style boat with a helm section isolated from the rest of the deckhouse. It has a wide seat and plenty of space for electronics within the bright teak dash.
From the adjustable wheel to the teak footrest, this illustrates ergonomic convenience with an artistic finish.
Outer Reef 80
This boat includes a counter to port, which houses a chart set, the instrument console with room for 4 screens, and the overhead cabinet, which handles many more systems.
The boat’s design is great, and you’ll like the rails atop the counters and the bookshelves that hold manuals and guides. The huge settee additionally functions as a skipper berth.
Kadey-Krogen 48
This trawler boat includes reversed helm windows to do away with instrument reflections, blends counter sea rails with handrails, and has twin Dutch side doors to enhance access and enjoy fresh air.
The big chart table has flat stowage drawers beneath, and the settee transforms into a berth to accommodate the off-watch.
Sea Ray 540
Sea Ray 540 must balance time underway with resting time, and it resolves the problem with double helm seats that swivel away from the helm facing starboard to a lounge and the cockpit entertainment space.
Rocker switches are adequately protected over the dash, with two multifunction-electronic displays.
Offshore-64
Offshore-64 features a huge instrument panel and an overhead console that contains the monitoring system for convenient viewing.
Great touches incorporate recessed panels that prevent unintentional switching. Also, its galley can be shut for night operation while the settee transforms into a pilot berth.
Ocean Alexander 60
This is a truly raised helm, isolated from the salon, essential for night operation. Doors lead to the side decks. The sole is non-slip teak and holly, and overhead rails enhance safety.
The chart table to port has flat stowage beneath, and there is more counter space at the skipper’s elbow. The instrument board has space for an array of electronics, while the raised settee serves as a skipper’s berth.
Helming a Boat
In essence, the helm is the skipper’s “office” anytime the boat is underway. As such, the helm ought to be designed accurately and outfitted to match that crucial role.
At first, helming a boat can be overwhelming. This is because you not only require steering, but you also need to check on the compass, waves, direction, wind, the wind vane, the sails, the heel of the boat, the telltales, and other related aspects.
As a beginner, you’ll find yourself all over the place, even when you’re only trying to steer within a straight line. However, just like with driving a vehicle, the more experience you get, the simpler things will become.
The Basics of Boat Helming
When it comes to accurate helming, the first step is to become conscious of your senses:
- You need to pay attention to and feel your boat heeling
- You should feel the direction of the wind atop your ears
- Get to listen for the flapping sails
- Lastly, observe the pressure over the boat’s helm
All of these indicate that something is going on and that a change or adjustment is required. Also, when steering a course, try not to begin at the compass.
This won’t assist because, unlike a vehicle, the wind forces and waves are invariably put out of the course. You’ll end up recompensing, steering left & right, and then sailing a zigzag.
Of course, your fellow crew members won’t like it either, as they’ll eventually feel uncomfortable!
Hence, the best action is to choose a point ahead (a landmark or a cloud) and then focus on that. If you go against the course, your senses will tell you.
Here, you’ll think about what needs to be done to correct the course. Ultimately, it’ll become your second nature. It’s important that if anyone aboard feels seasick, the best thing to do is to take the helm.
Providing them with something to focus on (instead of letting them think about how rough they are feeling) relieves the sick feeling nearly immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a wheel at the helm steer the boat?
When the helm’s wheel is turned, it moves cables or hydraulic lines connected to the rudder, altering its angle. This change in the rudder’s position redirects the water flow, causing the boat to turn in the desired direction.
The system provides the captain with precise control over the vessel’s steering.
What is the difference between a wheel and a tiller at the helm?
A wheel at the helm is turned to steer the boat, offering a more intuitive and often easier control, especially on larger vessels. A tiller, typically a horizontal bar, is pushed or pulled to move the rudder.
Tillers are simpler and more common on smaller boats, providing direct, manual steering control.
Where is the helm typically located on a boat?
The helm is typically located at the boat’s control station, in the cockpit on smaller boats, or the bridge on larger vessels.
This location provides the helmsman with a clear view of the surroundings, instruments, and controls, ensuring effective navigation and maneuvering of the boat.
Can modern boats have electronic helms?
Modern boats can have electronic helms, which use digital systems to control the rudder and other steering mechanisms.
These systems often include features like autopilot, integrated navigation displays, and enhanced responsiveness. Electronic helms provide precise control and simplify complex steering tasks, improving safety and efficiency.
How does the helm contribute to safe navigation?
The helm contributes to safe navigation by allowing the helmsman to accurately control the boat’s direction, respond to navigational challenges, and make quick adjustments.
A well-functioning helm ensures the vessel can avoid obstacles, adhere to maritime routes, and handle various weather conditions effectively, maintaining safety at sea.
What skills are required to operate the helm effectively?
Operating the helm effectively requires knowledge of boat handling and navigation and understanding the vessel’s response to steering inputs.
Skills include adjusting for wind, current, and waves and interpreting nautical charts and instruments. Experience and training enhance a helmsman’s ability to steer safely and accurately.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what constitutes the helm of a boat is essential for anyone involved in maritime activities. The helm, fundamentally, is the apparatus used for steering a boat located at the vessel’s rear.
It encompasses several components that work in unison to ensure the boat’s direction can be controlled accurately and safely.
Among these components, the tiller stands out as a traditional form of steering, being a long handle directly attached to the rudder.
Wheel steering has become prevalent in more modern vessels. A wheel adjusts the boat’s course through cables or hydraulics.
Additionally, technological advancements have introduced electronic steering systems, where a joystick offers precise control over the helm, marking a significant evolution from manual to digital control mechanisms.
The rudder, whether made of metal or wood, plays a crucial role as it is the physical piece that moves in the water to change the boat’s direction based on inputs from the helm.
The helmsman, a skilled individual responsible for operating the helm and ensuring the safe navigation of the boat, oversees all these elements.
The importance of understanding and efficiently managing what is at the helm of a boat cannot be overstated, as it is central to the vessel’s maneuverability and overall safety at sea.
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