Steering wheel location.

[Green Boater]

Top o' the morning gents (and ladies)!
I've got one of those trivial questions that pops in my head everytime I look at my boat.... Why is the steering wheel (on most all boats) located on the right-hand side of the boat? No biggie for me as I served almost 13 collective years in England while in the Air Force and became quite accustomed to driving right-hand drive cars.... Just had to ask though!
I appreciate your inputs!!
Happy (and safe) boating!!

 

[JoLin]

Re: Steering wheel location.

As a matter of fact, many powerboats over the years had the steering wheel mounted on the port side, but those are long gone.

Number 1 answer I've seen to the question is that by placing the 'Captain' on the starboard side, his/her weight helps to counteract propeller torque.

 

[smclear]

Re: Steering wheel location.

This topic has been discussed "ad nauseum". Do some searches and you'll find many differing opinions.

 

[Ned L]

Re: Steering wheel location.

... Gives better visibility to your 'danger quarter'.

 

[ajgraz]

Re: Steering wheel location.

Because the Brits once ruled the seas?

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Steering wheel location.

As a matter of fact, many powerboats over the years had the steering wheel mounted on the port side, but those are long gone.

Number 1 answer I've seen to the question is that by placing the 'Captain' on the starboard side, his/her weight helps to counteract propeller torque.

... Gives better visibility to your 'danger quarter'.

After researching this online, these are the 2 most common answers found.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Steering wheel location.

This topic has been discussed "ad nauseum". Do some searches and you'll find many differing opinions.

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