Helmsman

A helmsman or helm is a person who steers a ship, sailboat, submarine, other type of maritime vessel, or spacecraft. On small vessels, particularly privately owned noncommercial vessels, the functions of skipper and helmsman may be combined in one person. On larger vessels, there is a separate officer of the watch, who is responsible for the safe navigation of the ship and gives orders to the helmsman. In the merchant marine, the person at the helm is usually an able seaman, particularly during ship arrivals, departures, and while maneuvering in restricted waters or other conditions requiring precise steering. An ordinary seaman is commonly restricted to steering in open waters. Moreover, military ships may have a seaman or quartermaster at the helm.

A professional helmsman maintains a steady course, properly executes all rudder orders, and communicates to the officer on the bridge using navigational terms relating to ship's heading and steering. A helmsman relies upon visual references, a magnetic and gyrocompass, and a rudder angle indicator to steer a steady course. The mate or other officer on the bridge directs the helmsman aboard merchant or navy ships.

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Latest News for: helmsman

Pope Francis: ‘ethical helmsman’ whose feel for international relations steered church in turbulent times

The Conversation 24 Apr 2025
I met Pope Francis in 2016. It was part of a symposium of the former Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People (now recast by Francis as the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development) ... But it was not his job to run global politics ... .

Helmsman and Pilots Worked Against Each Other During Fremantle Allision

The Maritime Executive 17 Apr 2025
An interim factfinding report on the allision involving the boxship Maersk Shekou at Fremantle last year suggests that the vessel's helmsman and pilots were operating with different goals. The helmsman ...
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