In modern-day’s marine vessels, a “marine governor” is added to help the ship or yacht maintain its trim as well as a position during travel. Often referred to as a “ring governor,” this ring is placed on the stern of the vessel and helps to equalize the overall engine speed as well as the amount of rudder each paddle can apply to the rudder system.
Marine Governor is most often located in the same location as the steering lines, but in many cases, they may be located behind the main cabin or further forward. The amount of rudder, the vessel can apply is determined by a formula that includes the center of gravity, the ship’s center of lift, and the total vertical cross-section of the hull. All three factors are combined and a constant correction is made as to the ship and its components travel through the water.
As a general rule, the smaller the keel, the greater amount of Lagrange, or air drag the vessel will experience while sailing. As a result, marine vessels with shorter keels can maintain a constant rate of speed while those with larger keels will encounter more air drag while traveling at a slower rate.
The presence of a Governor on board can also help to reduce the amount of rudder the vessel experiences during a journey as well as providing a safer voyage for both passengers and crew members.
