I noticed detail!
If the player will be placed in the boat as a gunner, then he always looks to back (rotated to 180 degrees). I think this is right.
But, if the AI placed in the boat as a gunner, then he always looks only forward! I think this is wrong.
I think the any gunner (player or AI) should have only one initial orientation, directed to back. Anyway the gunner in this position can be able to rotate 360 degrees.