Who has the authority to steer the ship according to navigational orders?

The helmsman has the authority to steer the ship according to navigational orders. This position is crucial on a vessel, as the helmsman is responsible for physically controlling the ship's wheel and ensuring that it follows the course given by the officer on watch. The helmsman interprets commands and implements them, maintaining the desired heading as specified in navigational plans.

The other roles listed have distinct responsibilities that do not include steering the ship. For instance, the Quartermaster of the Watch (QMOW) provides navigational assistance, such as plotting courses and maintaining logs, but does not directly control the steering. Similarly, the Boatswain's Mate of the Watch (BMOW) oversees deck operations and crew activities but does not handle the steering responsibilities. The Officer of the Deck (OD Officer), who is in charge of the operations of the ship during their watch, gives commands but relies on the helmsman to execute the act of steering. Thus, the helmsman plays an essential role in following navigational orders by steering the ship according to the instructions provided by the Officer of the Deck or other supervising officers.