When it comes to operating a boat, there can often be confusion over the terminology used. One question that is frequently asked is whether a boat is driven or steered. The short answer is that boats are typically steered, not driven, although some may use the terms interchangeably.
Steering a boat involves controlling its direction of movement, while driving a boat refers to the act of propelling it forward. In most cases, the direction of the boat can be controlled using a steering wheel, tiller or joystick, depending on the type of boat you are operating.
When you turn the steering wheel or tiller, it moves the rudder, which in turn changes the direction of the boat. The rudder is a flat metal sheet located below the waterline at the stern (or back) of the boat, which pivots left or right to change the direction of the boat. Some boats may also have bow thrusters or stern thrusters, which are small propellers that can help the boat move sideways, making docking easier.
In contrast, the act of driving a boat refers to using the engine and propeller to move it forward through the water. The engine is usually controlled by a throttle, which can be adjusted to increase or decrease the speed of the boat. To steer the boat while driving, you need to make adjustments to the steering wheel or tiller, so the rudder can change the direction of the boat.
It’s worth noting that some boats may use alternative propulsion systems, such as jet propulsion or outboard motors, which work differently to traditional inboard engines with a propeller. However, the steering mechanism remains largely the same, and they are still typically steered using a steering wheel or tiller.
While some people may use the terms “driving” and “steering” interchangeably, when it comes to operating a boat, it’s more accurate to say that boats are steered rather than driven. The act of driving involves propelling the boat forward, while the act of steering involves controlling its direction of movement.