GL: Bow Thruster vs. Stern Thruster?

[Torrens, Kevin]

I have a bow thruster on my 41' single screw trawler and love it. It
provides an added level of comfort and control. But, as others have
stated, it should not be a substitute for being able to handle the boat
with out it. It will fail at the least opportune time (I know).
The pivot point while moving forward is about 1/3 from the bow. The
pivot point in reverse is about 1/4 from the stern. Note the change
depending on the direction of travel.
Since my anxiety is much higher in reverse, I prefer the added lever arm
of the bow thruster. However, you still must be able to point the rear
end at the right spot so rudder and throttle control is still important.
That being said, I would love to have a stern thruster as well but I can
live without it. I suspect either is better than none and you will adapt
to either and take advantage of its best qualities.
A stern thruster will generally set you back fewer BU's due to its
simpler installation.

Kevin
m/v Wisper
DeFever 41





  I am thinking of adding a thruster to our boat.  I am hoping the
  "List" can provide some good pros and cons of each.  Thanks
  Mike Linden
  Monk 36
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