Is Remote Steering Better for a Boat?

The need to steer from the stern or at a helm depends on the use of the boat.

Some boats are equipped with a helm placed toward the middle of the boat or farther forward. Other boats are operated by a tiller affixed to the motor positioned on the boat's transom. Depending on how the boat is used, one may be better than the other.

Speed Boats

Boats used to go fast are usually fitted with a helm station that remotely operates the boat's motor and steering. The helm being positioned forward in the boat allows the operator better forward vision as well as improved performance and handling.

Fishing Boats

Many fishermen prefer sitting at the rear of the boat and operating the motor and steering with the tiller. At ultra-slow trolling speeds and when back-trolling, this position improves the ability to precisely position the boat. The lack of a helm station allows more room for cargo or other fishermen.

Expense

Boats with remote steering positions are more expensive than a similar boat operated with a tiller system because of the expense of building and installing the helm in a forward part of the boat and the mechanical connections needed to operate the steering system and motor controls.

References

• Total Fisherman: Tiller Versus Steering Wheel?

Resources

• Holiday-Boats.com: Steering