Steering astern!

[Sailor Steve]

Originally Posted by CaptBones

Well, I don't really want to "torpedo" Sailor Steve's logic or contradict Jimbuna's experience

Why not? Other experiences and opinions are not only welcome, but vital.

...but...steering with astern way on is extremely easy and very accurate in twin-screw destroyers and "Fleet" type submarines (probably just as good for U-Boats). I once backed the USS Laffey (DD 724) through the inner harbor of Grand Harbor, Valleta, Malta, to "Med Moor" at Fort St. Angelo.

How fast? It's my understanding that the big problem isn't slow maneuvering in harbor but maintaining a straight course at high speed. Then again, I was a humble radioman and never got to do fun stuff like steer the ship. That said, I use sources which describe the real problems encountered, so it's not just theory.

The pivot point in the mentioned ship types moves forward (toward the bow) when going in the astern direction with way on.

This source says the pivot point moves aft when travelling in reverse. I don't claim to know, but...

I won the Pacific Fleet Shiphandling Award in 1974 by backing a single-screw "Knox" Class Frigate to starboard while making a "two bell" landing maneuver at berth B-26 in Pearl Harbor. I taught that maneuver to the students at Surface Warfare Officer School in San Diego for several years after that..."The Book" says it can't be done.

Them's some mighty fine credentials. I'll bow to your experience.