What is the definition of the nautical term ‘smartly’?

I believe it means quickly and direct to order, in other words, to turn quickly to face any apparent target or threat.

The tall ships of that era that were equipped for fighting had fixed cannons, which meant targeting was achieved by turning broadsides toward the target or threat...

Smartly Definition

Is Smartly A Word

It means "without delay" and to turn the wheel agressively in the direction ordered to come onto the new course as quickly as possible. The helmsman should be experienced enough however to not put an angle on the helm which will cause the propeller(s) to cavitate or the rudder to stall, either of which would have the effect of slowing the turn.

The term "Handsomely" is an old Navy term relating to helm commands meaning "slowly and carefully, with an emphasis on carefully". The term "Smartly", when used with helm commands, has a simular meaning.

I found different definitions ...Smartly - quickly, hurry up. "Do it smartly, men!", Smartly-Definition: Pertaining to work that is to be done quickly and correctly.

Checking: Slacking a rope smartly, carefully and in small amounts.

Smartly = just as the landlubber definition means - professionally/quickly

Its not one of the saltier shipping terms like 'avast' or 'ahoy' but it sounds good coming from a british accent in uniform :)

Avast

Definitions of smartly’ on the Web:

A rate of action. In this case, quickly.

ladywashington.org/glossary.html

cleverly: in a clever manner; "they were cleverly arranged"; "a smartly managed business"

vigorously: with vigor; in a vigorous manner; "he defended his ideas vigorously"

in a stylish manner; "He was smartly dressed"

wordnet.princeton.edu/perl/webwn

done well with all due haste.

Bringing the ship around and trimming sail.