Helmsman Orders - to the wheel must be given firmly and distinctly and repeated by the steersman in the exact words given by the master or mate on watch as proof that they are understood and are being obeyed. A standard should be used for changes in course and speed to. In commands to the steersman, the first word gives the direction so that the wheel can be started immediately, and the second gives the amount of rudder to be used.
"Right (left) standard rudder!" Standard rudder is the amount used to turn.
"Shift the rudder!" This is an order to change an equal amount from right to left rudder, or vice versa. It is often used while going ahead or backing in restricted waters to assist in a turn.
"Right (left) handsomely" This order is used by the old timers because today nobody would know what he's taking about, it is used for small rudder angles to make slight changes of course.
"Nothing to the right (left)" This order is given when the course to be made good is a shade off the course set and all small variations in steering must be kept to the right (left) of the compass course. It is used to avoid obstructions, buoys, or passing ships.
The steersman must repeat all orders exactly as given and must report when they have been carried out. When he is relieved, he must report that fact to the master or mate of the deck and report the course being steered.
