Amidships

In or towards the middle of a vessel, especially along its fore-and-aft length.

The term may describe the location of a compartment, load or person. It does not necessarily identify the point of maximum beam, the centre of gravity or the exact geometric centre, all of which can lie elsewhere.

As a helm order, “midships” or “amidships” directs the rudder towards its central position rather than necessarily guaranteeing a straight track. The vessel may continue turning because of momentum, wind, current or propulsion effects.