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 Lewmar GEN2 Bow Thruster Controllers are available in Single and Dual joystick versions for 12V and 24V systems. Compatible with the complete Lewmar GEN2 bow thruster range and GEN1 thrusters equipped with a black box when used with a Blue Box Converter, these controllers feature an ergonomic sealed design, multifunction LED status display, removable cover, and mounting dimensions matching previous Lewmar joystick panels. Not compatible with TT Basic 110TT, 125TT, and 140TT models.
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$ 313.85
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar GEN2 Bow Thruster Joysticks are available in Single and Dual configurations for 12V and 24V systems. Designed for the complete Lewmar GEN2 bow thruster range and compatible with GEN1 thrusters equipped with a black box when used with a Blue Box Converter, they feature an ergonomic joystick design, sealed front panel, multifunction LED status display, removable cover, and mounting dimensions matching previous Lewmar joystick installations. Not compatible with TT Basic 110TT, 125TT, and 140TT models.
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$ 336.27
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar GEN2 Bow Thruster Connection Cables provide reliable communication between GEN2 bow thruster control components. Available in 2 m, 7 m, 10 m, 18 m, and 22 m lengths, these original Lewmar cables simplify installation by allowing the correct cable length to be selected for different vessel layouts and wiring distances.
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$ 43.87
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Blue Box Converter enables existing GEN1 TT bow thrusters equipped with a black box to operate with Lewmar GEN2 controllers while retaining the original wiring. Installed adjacent to the joystick or control panel, it provides a simple upgrade path to GEN2 controls without replacing existing cables. Not compatible with TT Basic 110TT, 125TT, and 140TT models.
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$ 410.01
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar T1 and T2 Thruster Fuse Holders provide secure installation and protection for high-current bow thruster electrical systems. The T1 model is designed for ANL fuses and includes a durable polycarbonate safety cover, while the T2 model supports fuses up to 500 A for higher-capacity installations.
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$ 66.40
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Thruster Fuse range provides circuit protection for Lewmar bow thruster electrical systems and is available in ratings from 130A to 500A. The range includes standard and ANL-type fuses, with selected models offering ignition protection for installation aboard gasoline-powered boats. Multiple current ratings allow correct matching to different thruster models and electrical requirements.
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$ 18.45
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Stern Thruster Tunnels are original GRP tunnels designed for Lewmar stern thruster installations. Available for 140 mm, 185 mm, 250 mm, and 300 mm tunnel diameters, each tunnel is manufactured to match its corresponding thruster size and mounting pattern, ensuring accurate installation and reliable performance.
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$ 1,290.70
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Polyester Bow Thruster Tubes are fiberglass-reinforced polyester tunnels designed for Lewmar bow and stern thruster installations. Available in diameters from 110 mm to 300 mm and lengths from 750 mm to 2000 mm, they provide excellent corrosion resistance, high structural strength, and reliable performance in demanding marine environments.
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$ 319.91
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Steel Bow Thruster Tubes are designed for Lewmar bow and stern thruster installations where a steel tunnel is required. Available in 152.4 mm and 185 mm diameters with wall thicknesses of 4.0 mm and 6.3 mm, these heavy-duty tubes are supplied in lengths of up to 1500 mm to suit a variety of vessel layouts and installation requirements.
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$ 363.43
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar 140TT Proportional Bow Thruster features a 2.2 kW brushless induction motor operating on a 24V system with a 140 mm tunnel diameter. Delivering 21 kgf of proportional thrust while drawing 100 A at full power, it provides precise low-speed manoeuvring, unlimited running time, quiet operation, and virtually maintenance-free performance for modern marine installations.
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$ 5,760.03
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Proportional 185TT Bow Thrusters feature brushless induction motor technology for precise proportional control, continuous operation, and minimal maintenance. Available in 3.0 kW, 4.0 kW, 5.0 kW, and 6.0 kW 24V versions, they deliver thrust from 45 kgf to 76 kgf while providing quiet operation, high energy efficiency, and straightforward retrofit compatibility with existing Lewmar installations.
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$ 4,888.90
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar 250TT Proportional Bow Thruster combines an 8.0 kW brushless induction motor with proportional control for smooth, highly accurate manoeuvring. Operating on a 24V system, it delivers 119 kgf of thrust with continuous-duty capability, quiet performance, minimal maintenance, and backward compatibility for upgrading existing Lewmar thruster installations.
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$ 12,466.80
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Proportional 185TT Retrofit Kits are designed for upgrading existing Lewmar bow thruster installations with advanced proportional brushless technology. Available in 3.0 kW, 4.0 kW, 5.0 kW, and 6.0 kW 24V versions, these retrofit kits provide precise manoeuvring, continuous-duty operation, quiet performance, and virtually maintenance-free operation. Kits are supplied on request.
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$ 4,176.52
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar 250TT Proportional Bow Thruster Retrofit Kit is designed to upgrade existing Lewmar bow thruster installations with advanced brushless induction motor technology. Operating on a 24V system, it delivers 8.0 kW of power and 119 kgf of thrust while providing proportional control, continuous-duty operation, quiet performance, and virtually maintenance-free operation. This retrofit kit is available on request.
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$ 10,650.22
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Proportional Bow Thruster Control Panels are designed for the complete range of Lewmar proportional bow thrusters, providing intuitive proportional power control for precise vessel manoeuvring. Available in single and dual joystick configurations with composite or aluminium construction, they combine durable marine-grade materials with responsive operation for professional installations.
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$ 1,534.57
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Lewmar Proportional Bow Thruster Control Panel Connection Cables are designed to connect proportional bow thruster control panels to Lewmar proportional thruster systems. Available in five lengths from 2 to 22 metres, these pre-terminated wiring looms simplify installation while ensuring reliable communication between the control panel and thruster electronics.
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$ 255.01
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Jet Thruster JT-S30 is a high-performance water jet thruster, designed for efficient maneuvering with minimal noise. Providing 30 kgf of thrust and operating on a 12V DC voltage, it features a robust centrifugal pump, electric control, and seawater suction for noiseless operation, making it an excellent choice for boat owners looking for reliable and efficient thrust.
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Jet Thruster JT-S50 is a high-performance, silent water jet thruster designed for boats, providing 50 kgf of thrust. It operates by drawing in seawater and expelling it through nozzles, offering minimal noise during operation. Compatible with both 12V and 24V DC power, it features a robust centrifugal pump and electric control, making it ideal for efficient and quiet boat maneuvering.
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Jet Thruster JT-S70 is a powerful, silent water jet thruster offering 70 kgf of thrust, ideal for smooth and quiet boat maneuvering. Using seawater suction and expulsion, it operates with minimal noise. This model is equipped with a robust 11kW centrifugal pump, three-way valve, and electric control, supporting 24V DC voltage, and features a water intake of 1 meter.
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1-2 weeks delivery time The Jet Thruster JT-S90 provides 90 kgf of thrust, offering quiet and efficient boat maneuvering. This water jet thruster operates on the principle of seawater suction and expulsion through nozzles at the aft of the boat. With a powerful 15.5 kW centrifugal pump, three-way valve, and electric control, it runs on 24V DC, minimizing noise and delivering excellent performance.
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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.
