What does the rudder angle indicator display on a vessel?

The rudder angle indicator is a critical instrument on a vessel that specifically shows the angle of the rudder relative to the ship's centerline. This is important for navigation and maneuvering, as it helps the helmsman or navigator determine how much the rudder is turned to execute turns or maintain stability while traveling.

An understanding of the rudder angle is essential for effective steering and ensuring the vessel responds as expected. By knowing the rudder's position, operators can make informed decisions about course corrections and heading adjustments.

The other options are unrelated to the function of the rudder angle indicator. The ship's speed pertains to the vessel's pace through water, the depth of the water is measured by a depth sounder, and the direction of the wind is typically indicated by wind vanes or anemometers. Each of these serves distinct navigational purposes but does not reflect the rudder's functional status.