Why Do Ships Have Two Steering Wheels?

Sailing a ship requires careful navigation and flexibility, which is why ships often have two steering wheels. Having two steering positions serves multiple purposes and ensures safer and more efficient sailing. This article explores the benefits of having two steering wheels and delves into the design and functionality of ship steering systems.

Two Reasons for Dual Steering Wheels

There are two primary reasons for having two steering wheels on a ship. First, it ensures that the helm is always on the upwind side (windward side) when the vessel is heeled (tilted) due to wind or waves. This placement makes the steering position more comfortable and offers a better view forward, which is crucial for effective navigation. Second, it enables easier movement within the cockpit or afterdeck. By having a central aisle in the cockpit when both wheels are in use, crew members can move around more freely without any obstructions.

Evolution of Ship Steering Systems

The need for two steering wheels arises from the design and functionality of sails and the cockpit layout. Traditionally, ships used progressively larger steering wheels to bring the steering rim close to the cockpit edge, allowing the helmsman to see the telltales (small strips of light material used to indicate airflow over the sails). However, oversized wheels posed challenges in terms of movement and sail trim.

To address these issues, the solution was to split the large steering wheel into two smaller ones. These two smaller wheels are designed to be accessible from the edge of the cockpit, enabling the helmsman to monitor the telltales while adjusting the sails for optimal performance. The split steering wheel system not only enhances the helmsman's visibility but also allows crew members to move freely through the cockpit without obstruction.

Redundant Steering Systems for Safety

Additionally, having two steering wheels adds a layer of redundancy to the ship's navigation system. This redundancy can be crucial in case one steering wheel system fails. For example, if the primary steering wheel develops a mechanical issue, the backup wheel can still be used to maintain control of the ship. This dual system ensures that the vessel can continue to navigate safely and efficiently.

Optimal Position for Sailing Performance

For optimal sailing performance, helmsmen must be able to observe the small strips of light material (telltales) on the sails. These telltales provide critical information about the airflow over the sails, helping to determine the sail trimming angles and ensuring maximum performance. On many modern sailboats, particularly larger racing or cruising yachts, the helmsman needs to be positioned near the edge of the cockpit to see these telltales.

Larger yachts, in particular, benefit from having two steering wheels. By positioning the helmsman at the appropriate angle, they can better monitor the telltales, especially on the jib headsail. The jib headsail's luff (leading edge) and the upper part of the sail are critical areas for observing the telltales to ensure the sail is trimmed correctly. On modern boats, two steering wheels are necessary to achieve this optimal positioning.

In conclusion, having two steering wheels on ships and yachts is a practical solution that offers multiple benefits. It ensures the helmsman can maintain a comfortable and effective position, provides greater movement flexibility within the cockpit, and adds a layer of redundancy for enhanced safety and reliability.