Boating is a wonderful and exhilarating experience that everyone should try at least once in their lifetime. One question that has puzzled many people is why most boats have their steering wheel placed on the right side of the boat. To understand this, we need to look back in history and explore the reasons behind this seemingly odd placement.
Traditionally, boat steering was often done with a tiller, which is a long handle that extends from the rudder of the boat. The tiller was commonly located on the right side of the boat, which is where the helmsman or boat operator would stand.
When the first boats were being built in Europe, it was common practice to load cargo on the left side of the boat. This was because most sailors were right-handed, and it was easier for them to handle items with their dominant hand. As a result, cargo was loaded onto the left side to balance the weight of the boat.
It soon became apparent that this practice affected the way the boat handled in the water. When a boat is loaded heavier on one side, it tends to list or tip to that side. To counterbalance this effect, boat builders began placing the steering tiller on the opposite side, which was on the heavier right side of the boat.
This practice continued even when the tiller was replaced with a wheel as boats became larger and more complex. So today, even though the tiller has been replaced by a steering wheel, the placement of the helm is still on the right side of the boat.
Apart from the practical consideration of balancing the load on the boat, there are other reasons why the steering wheel is on the right side. One of these reasons is that most people are right-handed, and it’s more natural for them to use their dominant hand for steering. Additionally, many navigational aids and instruments are located on the right side of the boat, which makes it easier for the helmsman to access them.
The placement of the boat’s steering wheel on the right side is a traditional practice that has been passed down from generation to generation. It’s rooted in practical considerations, such as balancing the weight of the boat and making it easier for the helmsman to steer. Today, even with advances in technology, the tradition of having the steering wheel on the right side of the boat continues.