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Steering side of jet boat?

I have read several questions and answers about why many boats have the steering and hand controls on the right (starboard) side . The answers generally have to do with tradition, international sailing and an attempt to counter the rotation of the motor (especially in small high powered boats).

However, I have noticed that many (not all) jet boats are built more like automobiles with steering on the left (port) and foot throttles. This is more common on the bigger high powered jets. What makes jet boats different ?

3 Answers

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  • jtexas
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago
    Favourite answer

    Jet drives aren't subjected to the prop torque, which tends to lift the starboard side of a single-engine prop-powered boat with a standard right hand propeller.

    So I guess boat makers don't feel bound by tradition. Although, it does seem counterproductive to the viewpoint that a starboard side helm gives you greater visibility off the side of your boat where visibility is most needed, as you are the give-way vessel when another boat is crossing from your starboard side.

    The accelerator pedal, you'll also find on most "bass rockets" (shallow-draft performance-style "pad-v" hull with upwards of 275 hp outboard capable of 80, 90, 110+ mph, driven by the pro bass circuit and wannabes thereof) which also have a tendency to chine walk, hence the preference for having 2 hands on the wheel.

  • 1 decade ago

    Speed.

    It's nice to be able to use 2 hands to handle the wheel of a boat doing at/above 100 mph thereby requiring foot throttle.

    Source(s): 20+ yrs of boating...
  • Anonymous
    4 years ago

    it relatively is been completed. no longer very effectual because of the fact the pontoon is lots heavier and slower than the unique jet-ski - so the jet is working way exterior of its meant variety, and function is amazingly detrimental. The steerage and docking features are magnificent. the fee and function isn't.

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