Which phrase is used to indicate maintaining the current course and speed?

Which phrase is used to indicate maintaining the current course and speed?

• A. Move rudder 5 degrees either way
• B. Steady as she goes
• C. Mark your head
• D. All stop

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is holding the ship on its current track and speed. The phrase that communicates this to the helm is “Steady as she goes.” It tells the helmsman to maintain the present rudder angle and engine power, so the ship continues on the same course at the same speed. The other options imply turning (moving the rudder to steer), stopping all movement (all stop), or are not standard nautical commands, so they wouldn’t convey keeping course and speed. In practice, saying “steady as she goes” keeps the ship’s heading and speed constant, whether the helm is manual or the autopilot is engaged.

The main idea here is holding the ship on its current track and speed. The phrase that communicates this to the helm is “Steady as she goes.” It tells the helmsman to maintain the present rudder angle and engine power, so the ship continues on the same course at the same speed. The other options imply turning (moving the rudder to steer), stopping all movement (all stop), or are not standard nautical commands, so they wouldn’t convey keeping course and speed. In practice, saying “steady as she goes” keeps the ship’s heading and speed constant, whether the helm is manual or the autopilot is engaged.