Coxswain vs. Steersman — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 29, 2024
Coxswain manages crew coordination and strategy in rowing boats, while a steersman primarily focuses on navigating and steering the vessel.
Difference Between Coxswain and Steersman
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
In rowing, the coxswain plays a crucial role in directing the crew, making strategic decisions, and motivating rowers, whereas the steersman is more focused on the physical act of steering the boat to ensure it follows the desired path.
The coxswain is typically responsible for the overall management of the boat, including calling out the rhythm and adjustments needed during a race, while the steersman, although responsible for steering, does not usually engage in tactical decisions or crew management.
Coxswains are found in crew rowing where teamwork and synchronization are vital, and they often serve as the coach's representative within the boat. On the other hand, a steersman might be seen in a wider variety of vessels, primarily concerned with the mechanics of navigation.
In terms of position, a coxswain is seated at the stern or the bow of the rowing shell facing forward, which allows them to see the crew and coordinate movements; steersmen may be located in different positions depending on the type of boat, often facing the direction of travel.
The role of a coxswain is also characterized by their involvement in the psychological and motivational aspects of team dynamics, whereas a steersman’s role is largely technical, focusing on the physical control of the boat without the additional leadership responsibilities.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Primary Role
Crew coordination and strategic management
Navigation and steering of the boat
Involvement in Strategy
High, makes tactical decisions
Low, focuses on practical steering
Boat Types
Mainly found in rowing shells
Found in various types of vessels
Position in Boat
Seated facing the crew
Position varies, often facing travel direction
Psychological Involvement
High, includes motivation of the crew
Low, focuses on technical aspects
Compare with Definitions
Coxswain
Someone responsible for the navigation and operation of a small naval boat.
As a coxswain, he was responsible for the safe docking of the dinghy.
Steersman
Someone skilled in the technical aspects of marine navigation.
The experienced steersman navigated the narrow channels flawlessly.
Coxswain
In naval terms, an officer in charge of the boat and its crew.
The ship's coxswain ensured all safety procedures were followed.
Steersman
A person tasked with steering a boat or ship.
The steersman kept a steady course through the turbulent waters.
Coxswain
A person who steers a rowing boat and directs the crew.
The coxswain shouted commands to synchronize the rowers.
Steersman
A role primarily focused on navigation and the physical control of a vessel.
As the steersman, his main job was to watch for obstacles in the river.
Coxswain
A role that combines strategy, motivation, and leadership in rowing.
The coxswain's strategic calls helped them overtake their competitors.
Steersman
In historical contexts, an individual who operated the rudder or steering oar.
The Viking ship's steersman guided them through the fjords.
Coxswain
A leader who coordinates varying aspects of performance in sport rowing.
Their coxswain played a crucial role in their championship win.
Steersman
A position on a boat requiring good judgment and steady hands.
Their steersman made critical decisions during the race.
Coxswain
The coxswain ( KOK-sən) is the person in charge of a boat, particularly its navigation and steering. The etymology of the word gives a literal meaning of "boat servant" since it comes from cock, a cockboat or other small vessel kept aboard a ship, and swain, an Old English term derived from the Old Norse sveinn meaning boy or servant.
Steersman
A person who is steering a boat or ship.
Coxswain
The person who steers a ship's boat, racing boat, or other boat.
Steersman
One who steers a ship.
Coxswain
A person who usually steers a ship's boat and has charge of its crew.
Steersman
(nautical) One who steers a ship or other vessel; the helmsman.
Coxswain
A person in a racing shell who usually directs the rest of the crew.
Steersman
One who steers; the helmsman of a vessel.
Coxswain
To act as coxswain or serve as coxswain for.
Steersman
The person who steers a ship
Coxswain
In a ship's boat, the helmsman given charge of the boat's crew.
Coxswain
(rowing) The member of a crew who steers the shell and coordinates the power and rhythm of the rowers.
Coxswain
(archaic) The second or third mate of a vessel, in charge of the master's barge.
Coxswain
(naval) A rank or position.
Canadian Navy Coxswain (or Capitaine d'Armes) is the senior non-commissioned officer aboard a ship
British Royal Navy Cadets Cadet Coxswain is the highest normal rank which may be achieved.
Coxswain
To act as coxswain for.
To coxswain for a college rowing team
To coxswain a boat
Coxswain
See Cockswain.
Coxswain
The helmsman of a ship's boat or a racing crew
Common Curiosities
Is a coxswain necessary in all types of rowing boats?
Not all rowing boats require a coxswain, especially in smaller or single-person boats where the rower manages both rowing and steering.
How does the role of a steersman differ from that of a coxswain?
A steersman primarily focuses on steering and navigating the boat, without the added responsibilities of crew management and strategic decision-making.
Can a coxswain participate in rowing during a race?
No, the coxswain does not row but focuses on steering and directing the crew.
Can a steersman make strategic decisions during a maritime operation?
Typically, the steersman's role is limited to navigation and steering, while strategic decisions are made by higher-ranking officers or the captain.
What qualifications are needed to be a steersman?
A steersman needs to have good navigation skills and a deep understanding of the vessel's mechanics.
What does a coxswain do if the boat is off course?
The coxswain makes strategic adjustments and commands to realign the boat and maintain the race strategy.
What training does a coxswain undergo?
A coxswain undergoes training in navigation, race strategy, crew management, and often leadership and motivation techniques.
What is the main responsibility of a coxswain in rowing?
The coxswain's main responsibility is to steer the boat, coordinate the crew, and implement racing strategies.
How does team interaction differ between a coxswain and a steersman?
A coxswain interacts directly and continuously with the rowing team, providing commands and feedback, whereas a steersman's interaction is more focused on navigational communication.
In what type of vessel is a steersman most commonly found?
A steersman can be found in various vessels, from large ships to small recreational boats.
How does the presence of a coxswain impact the performance of a rowing team?
A coxswain can significantly boost the team's performance through effective communication, strategy implementation, and motivation.
What skills are essential for a steersman?
Key skills for a steersman include precise handling of the steering mechanisms, good judgment, and an understanding of navigational charts.
How important is experience for a steersman?
Experience is crucial for a steersman to effectively handle diverse navigational challenges and operate the steering systems under varying conditions.
What are the safety responsibilities of a coxswain?
A coxswain ensures all safety protocols are followed, communicates with the crew about safety measures, and manages any emergencies that arise on the boat.
Can a coxswain take control of the boat in emergency situations?
Yes, a coxswain is trained to take control and make quick decisions in emergency situations to ensure the safety and stability of the boat and crew.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Wooly vs. Woolly
Next Comparison
Inhabitable vs. HabitableAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
