Bow and Stern Thrusters

Why Do You Need a Manoeuvring Thruster on a Boat?

Manoeuvring a yacht or motorboat requires high precision and skill. Manoeuvring thrusters are essential for improving the vessel’s handling at low speeds, in high winds, or during mooring.

Types of Manoeuvring Thrusters

Pleasure craft or yachts typically use three types of manoeuvring thrusters: tunnel, outboard, and retractable.

  1. Outboard Thrusters:

    • Installed with a bracket.
    • Limited in power, usually found on small boats and yachts.
    • Some create additional resistance to the hull, reducing their popularity.
  2. Retractable Thrusters:

    • Less common than tunnel thrusters.
    • Higher cost for the thruster itself and for installation and maintenance.
    • Similar to tunnel thrusters but with mechanisms to retract into the hull when not in use.
  3. Tunnel Thrusters:

    • Most commonly used and reliable.
    • Expensive, but frequently installed by manufacturers at the factory.
    • Installed in the bow or stern inside a tunnel, with a propeller that rotates in both directions.
    • Can be electric or hydraulic, creating a powerful water flow that moves the boat’s bow or stern.

Bow Thruster

A bow thruster is essential for safe docking in any place and weather. It makes manoeuvring easier, faster, and safer. Installed in the bow tunnel, its propeller can rotate in two directions, shifting the boat’s nose in the opposite direction of the water flow.

Stern Thruster

For absolute control during manoeuvring, a stern thruster combined with a bow thruster is ideal. Together, they allow for precise manoeuvring in tight spaces or adverse weather conditions. Operating them in opposite directions can turn the boat quickly, while operating them in the same direction enables accurate docking.

Why Choose Max Power’s Thrusters?

Max Power manufactures top-quality thrusters for yachts and boats ranging from 18 to 140 feet. Their bow and stern thrusters are known for unparalleled performance and quality, with options ranging from 25 kgf to 550 kgf.

About Us

Welcome to gaelixmarineservice.com, your maritime hardware store. Our online store, Gaelix Marine Service, is the official representative of Lalizas, which includes Max Power. We offer advanced equipment, technical support, and installation services. With our many years of experience, we ensure quick and technically correct installations. Enjoy service and spare parts availability, along with a 2-year warranty from the day of commissioning.