Understand the basic steering controls before practising small, supervised changes of direction.
3-minute read + a quick quizSaily’s illustrated sailing world · Control the boat
When moving forwards normally, moving the tiller to port turns the bow to starboard. Turning a conventional wheel to starboard turns the bow to starboard. Make small adjustments.
Remember these three things
01Tiller: opposite bow direction
02Wheel: usual turn direction
03Lookout: keep looking around
Two controls, one steering surface
A tiller is a lever connected to the rudder. A wheel operates the steering system through a linkage. With conventional forward movement, moving a tiller to port turns the bow to starboard; a conventional wheel is turned in the direction you want the bow to go. Your instructor will demonstrate your boat’s arrangement.
Small changes give clearer feedback
New sailors often make a large correction, then another large correction in the opposite direction. On a suitable training course, your instructor can help you choose a reference point and notice how the boat responds to a small input. Response varies with speed, water flow and boat type. Do not expect car-like handling.
Steering is not the whole job
Keep looking around, not just at the tiller or wheel. Obstacles, other boats, crew position and wind direction all matter. Tell the instructor if the steering feels unusually heavy or the boat is not responding. Manoeuvring backwards and at very low speed introduces differences that need practical instruction.
Put it into context
In normal forward motion, you move a conventional tiller left. Which way does the bow turn?
Think it through, then reveal the explanation.
Show the explanation
To the right. Practise this relationship with an instructor and small inputs. Backwards motion and unusual steering arrangements need a separate explanation.
Word to know: Helm
The steering position or control; also used informally for the person steering.
A quick check
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