Steering apparatus for outboard motor

A case of a helm device is provided with a steering shaft. A rotation of the steering shaft is detected by a helm sensor. A friction generating mechanism is disposed in the case. The friction generating mechanism includes a rotor disposed on the steering shaft, an inner disk configured to rotate together with the rotor, an outer disk opposed to the inner disk, an electromagnetic actuator, and an armature configured to be driven by the electromagnetic actuator. An assist spring is disposed in the case. The assist spring urges the armature in such a direction as to press the disks against each other.