Maybe the British were the first to install steering wheels on boats. We are traveling to England this summer. Maybe my boat experience will come in handy.
Torque from a standard rotation prop will tend to lift the starboard side of a boat, causing a slight list to port. If the only occupant of the boat were the driver, placing him on the starboard side would tend to counter that list, while placing him port would increase the list.
1. On smaller powerboats, putting the helm on the right side means the weight of the operator will counteract the torque of the propeller
2. Putting the helm on the right side maximizes visibility in right-of-way situations
3. Most people feel more comfortable using their right hand on the controls.
I have a center console with the wheel on the left of the console and the controls on the right.
This subject has been discussed before. Check the following:
http://www.lakesonline.com/Forum/thread.asp?tid=93120&SiteID=AL001