A bow thruster is a propulsion device mounted on the bow (front) of a boat to provide lateral thrust, aiding in maneuvering in tight spaces or adverse conditions such as strong winds or currents. It consists of a propeller housed in a tunnel that can be rotated to push water to the sides, allowing the boat to move sideways. Bow thrusters are available in various kits and voltages, offering improved control and handling for vessels of different sizes and types. They enhance safety and ease of operation, particularly during docking and mooring maneuvers. Bow thrusters, including both bow and stern thrusters, are equipped with advanced technology for precise maneuvering. With options for remote or joystick control, they offer wide compatibility and expertise in handling various vessels. Bow thrusters and stern thrusters are available in DC power, and some models feature externally mounted or retractable designs for easy installation.
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BP125A20 Aluminium Thruster Tunnel (article BP125A20) is designed for VETUS bow thruster systems, featuring a 125 mm internal diameter and 2000 mm length. Its lightweight and corrosion-resistant aluminium construction ensures reliable installation and efficient hydrodynamic performance in small craft and lightweight marine hulls.
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$ 920
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BP125A30 Aluminium Thruster Tunnel (article BP125A30) is a corrosion-resistant and lightweight bow thruster tunnel featuring a 125 mm internal diameter and 3000 mm length. Designed for VETUS bow thruster installations in small craft, it provides reliable structural support and efficient water flow for optimal maneuvering.
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$ 1,332.19
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BP150A15 Aluminium Thruster Tunnel (article BP150A15) is designed for VETUS bow thrusters and installation in aluminium-hulled yachts and small craft. It features a 150 mm internal diameter and 1500 mm length, offering a lightweight and corrosion-resistant mounting solution.
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$ 491.65
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BP150A20 Aluminium Thruster Tunnel (article BP150A20) is designed for VETUS bow thruster installation in aluminium-hulled yachts and small craft. It features a 150 mm internal diameter and a 2000 mm length, providing a lightweight and corrosion-resistant mounting solution for optimal thruster alignment.
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$ 651.28
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BP185A15 Aluminium Thruster Tunnel (article BP185A15) is designed for VETUS bow thruster installation in aluminium-hulled yachts and small craft. It features an internal diameter of 185 mm and a 1500 mm length, providing a lightweight and corrosion-resistant solution for stable thruster mounting and efficient water flow.
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$ 651.28
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BP250A15 Aluminium Thruster Tunnel (article BP250A15) is designed for VETUS bow thrusters including BOW125 and BOW160 models. Featuring a 250 mm internal diameter, 1500 mm length and 7.0 mm wall thickness, it is manufactured from extruded Aluminium 6060 (AlMgSi) with T6 mechanical properties for durability and corrosion resistance in aluminium hull installations.
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$ 1,110.60
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus STERN250R GRP Stern Thruster Tunnel is designed specifically for VETUS Rimdrive stern thruster systems. It features a 250 mm internal diameter and a durable GRP construction, optimized for external mounting on the transom to support smooth and efficient stern maneuverability.
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$ 554.97
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BPA Adapter Plate (article: BPA) is designed for thruster control system upgrades, enabling the installation of BPSE2, BPJE2, BPSSE, or BPJSE panels in place of older BPS or BPJ units. Older panels measure 98 × 98 mm, while the newer models are 85 × 85 mm, making this adapter plate essential for proper dashboard coverage and secure mounting when retrofitting existing installations within Vetus thruster systems.
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$ 57.25
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus DBPPJA Dual Thruster Joystick Panel (article: DBPPJA) provides proportional control for two BOW PRO (Boosted) thrusters using a compact multi-axial joystick design. It can operate bow and stern thrusters independently or simultaneously, with a twist function for vessel rotation. Featuring lock-and-hold control, waterproof IP65 housing, V-CAN compatibility, LED status indication, and an aluminium bezel, the panel installs into a 76 mm cut-out with a 120 mm build-in depth and compact 85 × 85 mm dimensions.
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$ 1,664.23
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BPSRC Retractable Bow Thruster Touch Panel (article: BPSRC) is a compact 12/24V control interface with integrated time delay protection to prevent rapid direction reversal damage. Designed for installation in a Ø52 mm cut-out, it features V-CAN compatibility, automatic safety functions including child protection, and comes with interchangeable white, black, and chrome bezels for seamless dashboard matching. The front is waterproof to IP66, with a 63 mm diameter and 90 mm installation depth.
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$ 528.69
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BPJRC Retractable Bow Thruster Panel (article: BPJRC) is a joystick-operated 12/24V control unit designed for retractable bow thrusters. It integrates a built-in time delay to protect the thruster from damage during rapid direction changes and includes child protection for added safety. The panel supports V-CAN communication and installs in a Ø52 mm cut-out with a 63 mm total diameter and 90 mm build-in depth. Supplied with white, black, and chrome bezel options.
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$ 509.84
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BPPJACV1 Control Panel Cover (article: BPPJACV1) is a protective accessory designed specifically for BOW PRO and RIMDRIVE proportional control panels including models DBPPJA, BPPJA, and BPPPA. Made from UV-resistant silicone rubber, it shields the control panel from sun, rain, and other environmental exposure, ensuring long-lasting reliability during boating seasons. Simple to install and remove for convenient use.
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$ 32.75
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BPPJACV2 Thruster Control Panel Cover (article: BPPJACV2) protects BOW PRO and RIMDRIVE thruster control panels from sun, rain, and environmental exposure. Designed specifically for DBPPJA, BPPJA, and BPPPA panels, it installs easily and ensures long-lasting durability thanks to UV-resistant silicone rubber construction, providing extended and trouble-free operational life.
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$ 32.75
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BPPJACV3 Thruster Control Panel Cover (article: BPPJACV3) is designed to protect BOW PRO and RIMDRIVE proportional control panels such as DBPPJA, BPPJA, and BPPPA from exposure to sunlight, rain, and other environmental conditions. Made of UV-resistant silicone rubber, it installs easily to ensure long-term durability and trouble-free operation.
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$ 32.75
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus CANVXCJP is an electronic interface module for connecting a proportional joystick to the vessel’s V-CAN bus, enabling proportional control of the thrust of Vetus BOW PRO (or RIMDRIVE) bow and/or stern thrusters. The module does not include the joystick itself and requires a compatible Vetus joystick (e.g. DBPPJX). Proper installation and wiring are critical for stable operation; incorrect wiring or reversed polarity may cause permanent damage.
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$ 1,163.14
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus CANVXCSP interface (article: CANVXCSP) enables external push-button control of bow and/or stern thrusters via the vessel’s V-CAN network. It supports multiple helm stations, uses simple NO push-buttons for on/off thrust activation, and provides maximum thrust output through external switching. It can be installed out of sight in a ventilated area and relies on correct polarity and CAN bus wiring for safe operation.
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$ 1,163.14
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus BPJ5B Thruster Control Panel (article: BPJ5B) is designed for hydraulic bow thruster systems, featuring a 5-position joystick that provides two-stage thrust control for precise maneuvering. The first detent position allows partial power for controlled hands-free operation, while the second stage delivers full thrust instantly when required. Made with UV-resistant materials and protected to IP65, this remote panel ensures reliable performance even in harsh marine environments.
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$ 827.06
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus HT1034 Joystick (article: HT1034) is designed for proportional hydraulic bow thruster systems, providing precise single-axis directional control. It includes a twistlock safety mechanism and an LED indicator that illuminates when the joystick opens the proportional valve and shuts off when the joystick returns to neutral. The LED can be mounted into one of the joystick’s existing mounting holes for optimal visibility.
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$ 1,510.66
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus CANVWRC wireless remote system (article: CANVWRC) enables control of up to two onboard devices such as bow/stern thrusters or a thruster and windlass. Suitable for Vetus BOW PRO and DC thrusters, it features 8–30 V DC supply, 10–25 m operational range, detachable antenna, and IP66 watertight transmitter. The system includes a base unit, one remote controller, and two WRCCAB connection cables, offering quick installation via DC thruster loom sockets and V-CAN connectors. Full-power control is provided for BOW PRO thrusters (non-proportional).
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$ 717.95
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Vetus WRCKF key fob (article: WRCKF) is an additional wireless handheld remote for use with the Vetus WRCBS receiver system, enabling control of bow thrusters, stern thrusters, and/or windlasses from a distance of up to 25 meters. It is powered by a 3V CR2032 battery and protected to IP66, providing reliable performance in harsh marine environments. Suitable as an extra or replacement transmitter for vessels equipped with WRC remote systems.
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$ 99.67
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In what situations would a boat benefit from having a bow thruster installed?
A boat would benefit from having a bow thruster installed in situations where maneuverability is crucial, such as navigating tight spaces in marinas or docking in adverse weather conditions. Additionally, boats with large or heavy structures, or those used for commercial purposes, may find a bow thruster indispensable for enhancing control and safety during operations. Installing a bow thruster kit can significantly improve the vessel's handling and reduce the risk of collisions or damage to the boat and surrounding infrastructure.
Installing boat thrusters, whether externally mounted or retractable, offers a wide array of benefits for boats of all types. These thrusters provide added maneuverability and control, helping to protect against accidental collisions and damage. With options made from durable stainless steel to resist corrosion, they are specifically designed for easy installation and quiet operation, making them ideal for close quarters and a wide range of vessels. Whether you're navigating marinas or require enhanced control during commercial operations, boat thrusters are a versatile solution also available for freight shipping.
What are the primary components of a bow thruster kit?
The primary components of a bow thruster kit typically include the thruster unit itself, which consists of a propeller housed in a tube that's mounted beneath the boat's hull near the bow. Additionally, the kit usually includes an electric motor, a control panel or joystick for operation, and all necessary wiring and mounting hardware. Depending on the model and specifications, bow thruster kits may come in different power options, such as 12V or 24V, to suit various boat sizes and propulsion systems.
When considering bow thruster kits, it's essential to keep in mind the possibility of externally mounted or retractable thrusters, offering versatile solutions for various boat designs. These kits, universally designed, can match the specific requirements of your vessel, with options available for installation below the waterline. Whether you opt for the quiet operation of a 285-powered thruster or explore other alternatives, thorough research and consultation can ensure the perfect fit for your boating needs.
Can aftermarket bow thrusters be installed on all types of boats?
Aftermarket bow thrusters can typically be installed on most types of boats, provided there is sufficient space and structural integrity to accommodate the installation. The compatibility of the boat with an aftermarket bow thruster may depend on factors such as hull design, size, and weight distribution. It's essential to consult with a professional and consider factors like power requirements, installation complexity, and potential modifications to ensure a successful installation.
Seeking advice from our experienced professionals at our specialized shop can offer valuable insights into appropriate solenoid options and pod configurations, particularly if installation below the waterline is required.