THRUSTER SYSTEMS

The popularity of bowthrusters is easy to understand as it greatly improves the boating experience for all boaters. And, while most people realize that a thruster moves the bow sideways, many may not fully comprehend how thrusters effect the boats motion and why a thruster makes sua difference.

Slow speed manoeuvring is a challenge for many boat operators. Single engine boats generally have less slow speed control than twin engine boats. A single engine boat really has no tool other than aggressive driving to counter the feeling of "losing" the bow in crosswinds, not to mention steering while reversing. While a twin engine boat is more controllable, it is by no means simple to handle in tight spots. It takes skill and training to become proficient at docking a boat without a bowthruster.

Many boaters are also challenged by the fact that a boat in water reacts very differently than a car on the road. While a car will follow its "bow" by steering the front wheels, a boat actually steers by pushing the stern over so you literally have to "go around" your bow, of course while moving forward or backward. By having to "go around" your bow, you also need a lot more space. And then of course, you are in a liquid so that it does not stand still and are affected by wind and currents adding even more factors to consider.

With a bowthruster, you steer the bow of the boat and make the boat move like a car, and you can even move the bow sideways without moving forward or backward, fine-tuning the docking action or tight spot manoeuvre. Today, bowthrusters are installed in all kind of boats from 20'/ 6m and up. These installations are easy to do both in new boats and as retrofits as well. The group with arguably the biggest advantage are single engine boats, and it is now common for even boats with outboard engines to fit a bowthruster. Some might be worried about cutting a "big hole" in their boat below the waterline, but in fact, fitting a fiberglass tube actually increases both the rigidity and strength of the hull.

While installing a thruster may be a larger investment than some other accessories (like electronics), the upside is that it adds more long term value to the boat because it does not go out of fashion or is likely to ever need replacement.

For more information call our Puerto Rico authorized dealer Azimuth Maritime 787-397-8028


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