If this game is as moddable as others with similar engines (Pirates of the Caribbean, City of Abandoned Ships etc), don't fret, we can easily add realistic-styled steering that requires counter-rudder.
I'm running a little "Builders' Trials" project that reviews shiphanding on a case by case basis for a Pirates of the Caribbean community expansion. Part of my dissatisfaction is the unrealistic steering. Does a real life captain need to mash down the A key for 5 minutes to turn a galleon? No. Do ships suddenly sail in reverse when they change tack? Obviously not! So realism helps gameplay, not hinders.
And this ladies and gentlemen, is the result:
"Kriegsfischkutter"
Now now, I know what you're thinking, this ain't no advertisement, I'm a plain jane civilian who is adding realistic ship inertia to 170+ ships in 1 month for POTC: New Horizon's next release.
If that game uses the Storm engine and this one uses just a more advanced version of it, I just need to get my claws on the relevant code.
But first, I need to get this game first... I want it so much!