How Big Is a Cruise Ship Rudder?

By Michael Ferguson

The rudder of a cruise ship is a critical component of the vessel, responsible for providing dynamic control during navigation. Cruise ships typically range in size from the smaller river-type vessels to the mega-size ocean liners, and as such, their rudders vary greatly in size. Generally speaking, cruise ship rudders are larger than those on other types of vessels due to the greater amounts of power needed to maneuver these large vessels.

The rudder on a riverboat or ferry type vessel is usually around 5 feet tall and 8 feet wide, while those on an ocean liner may reach up to 15 feet in height and 11 feet in width. The larger size is necessary due to their higher speeds and more powerful engines. The rudder also has to be strong enough to withstand the tremendous force generated by the vessel’s propellers.

The shape of a cruise ship’s rudder also varies depending on its design. Many of these vessels feature a semi-elliptical shaped rudder which is designed for maximum maneuverability and control. Others use a “spade” type design which provides greater stability at higher speeds but less agility when turning.

In addition, some ships have dual rudders which can be used together or independently to increase their control when navigating tight spaces or reversing direction quickly. Cruise ships may also have multiple sets of rudders with different designs and sizes depending on their intended use.

Conclusion:

Cruise ship rudders come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and designs depending on their purpose. Large ocean liners typically have much larger rudders than smaller riverboats due to the power needed for navigation at higher speeds. Dual or multiple rudders may also be used to provide additional control when navigating tight spaces or reversing direction quickly.