A folding tiller for boats including a central fixed part and two essentially-symmetrical, opposing lateral segments which are articulated to the central part by respective hinges which are provided on two diametrically-opposed spokes of the tiller. The two lateral segments are folded down and stacked on top of the fixed part, in order to pass from an open extended position to a folded or retracted position. Moreover, respective longitudinally-opposing spoke segments are held in position by locking elements, at least while the tiller is to be maintained in the deployed configuration.