Deck General · Rudder & Propeller

On a single right-hand fixed-pitch propeller backing down (engine astern), the stern tends to walk to:

Explanation

A right-hand propeller going astern throws the stern to port (and the bow to starboard) due to transverse thrust. Mariners use this predictable 'walk' when maneuvering in close quarters.

Authority: Knight's Modern Seamanship (transverse thrust / paddle-wheel effect)

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