I don't know I asked the same question!
Steerage is at the bottom of the ship always.
In the past, the cheapest passage on a ship was called steerage because the accommodation was in the lowest level of the ship where the steering mechanism was located.
The cargo compartment of a boat, which poorer immigrants traveled in
Steerage
The answer you are looking for is Steerage
the cargo compartment of a boat, where poorer immigrants traveled in
Olivia and Hans could not afford the more expensive cabins on the upper decks of the cruise ship. They opted to ride in the steerage on the lower decks.
In the early days of passenger liners the cheapest tickets were in 'steerage', the lowest deck just above the bilges.
It was called steerage.
Because that is the area of the ship their living quarters were located.
Passage on a ship, regardless of the level, included meals. Steerage would have been of a great deal less quality than in the higher class cabins, but it was food.
The cheapest passenger fares were called steerage. This term is no longer used.