What is the wheel on a ship called?

The wheel on a ship is also referred to as the ship's steering wheel, which is the device used by the helmsman to steer the ship in a particular direction. The wheel is located on the ship's bridge, which is the command center of the vessel where the ship's officers and the captain operate the ship.

The wheel is typically composed of a large wooden or metal ring that is turned by the helmsman to control the rudder, which is the movable fin at the stern of the ship that is used to direct the ship's course. The wheel is usually mounted on a pedestal that can rotate 360 degrees to allow the helmsman to maintain a clear view of the ship's surroundings.

Modern ships often use electronic steering systems that are operated by a joystick or computer, but traditional ships still use the classic ship's wheel as a symbol of maritime heritage and tradition.