Nautical Term: Set the course

Definition of Set the course

To provide the helmsman with explicit instructions on the desired heading or direction to be maintained while navigating the watercraft.

For instance, in a sailing race, the tactician would instruct the skipper and the helmsman as follows: Set the course: 35 degrees true. This direction indicates that the helmsman should maintain a heading of 35 degrees true with respect to the magnetic north.

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