In general, thrusters are used to improve a ship's manoeuvrability at lower speeds.
Negotiating locks or mooring up is far easier and the influence of the wind can be compensated for.

The HYDROMAR range of bow- and stern thrusters are available with hydraulic power as standard. Certain models are however available with electric drive (3HP).

There are three major types of thruster available:
1. Fixed tunnel thrusters.
2. Retractable thrusters (vertical movement)
3. Pivoting thrusters (rotating forward)

All thruster types are available fabricated in either bronze or aluminium alloy, making them suitable for installation in vessels of steel, aluminium or composite construction.

Fixed Direct DrivenThrusters
Thrusters with the hydraulic motor mounted in a watertight pod within the thruster tube. Originally developed for use in small inland waterways, this type of thruster has evolved into a thruster with wider professional applications.

Fixed Gear-Driven Thrusters
A bronze or aluminium gear housing with a right angle gear drive is mounted onto a flange in the thruster tube. Due to the increase in yacht dimensions, this range of thrusters now extends up to 90 kW. They are therefore suitable for mega yachts of up to 50 m.

Counter Rotating Propellers
The demand for smaller thruster tubes in combination with requirements for reduced noise levels have led to the development of a new series of thrusters with two counter rotating propellers. This technology has been adopted from the commercial sector, where this type of thruster has been in use for many years.

Retractable Thrusters
In sailing vessels where inadequate immersion is possible for traditional tunnel thrusters, retractable thrusters can offer a solution. These have been developed over 20 years and the range now extends up to 90 kW.
These thrusters are also available as a version where the unit can be rotated 90° for use as emergency propulsion.

Pivoting Thrusters
Instead of retracting vertically these thrusters rotate about a pivot in the forward end of the housing allowing installation in locations with restricted height.
Hydromar pivoting thrusters are available in gear or direct drive versions ranging in power from 11 to 90 kW.