Bow Thruster

[sepeteus]

Hey JJB, had a look at the pictures. What a beautiful yacht! what make is that?

[barnakiel]

Originally Posted by sepeteus

Hello all! Just joined CF and need help! I have bought Beneteau First 47.7 Havent got that much experience maneuvering and docking a yacht this size. I have a hand over this Sunday and then the yacht is for me to park! I will be sailing this yacht short handed even single! What would be the way to go? There is new stuff out there on the market (360 degree motors controlled by joystick) or is the traditional thrusters (left and right) best option? Can anybody recommend a system and brand/model?

cheers
Seppo

Hi,

I think you will spend your bucks better buying some parking lessons.

A First 47 is not the kind of boat that calls for a thruster. She rides in reverse pretty well.

b.

[Bash]

Originally Posted by barnakiel

Hi,

I think you will spend your bucks better buying some parking lessons.

A First 47 is not the kind of boat that calls for a thruster. She rides in reverse pretty well.

b.

Agreed. One of the problems with a thruster is that you will never develop your skills to the point where you would realize how well that boat will dock without a thruster.

[bstreep]

We have a 47. When we first got her, it was a bit challenging. If there's not too much wind, I can put it anywhere.

We are in Corpus Christi now. With typical crosswinds 20-30kts, we don't back in because of our windage, but in most cases, we probably could.

You just need a lot of practice, and to learn exactly what your boat will do - especially in reverse. You will use the prop walk and lack of steering to your advantage.

[sepeteus]

Yes, did get my new (old 47.7 Beneteau 2001model) over the weekend! Docking the boat wasnt hard after all. It is all about keeping the right speed and momentum reversing her in!!!! I feel better about it. However, does anybody here have any experience about Jet Thruster JT series. I still want to put a bow thruster in and been quoted JT-90 model for AUD8900 excluding batteries and installation. This system seems like a good one as it is based on high pressured water pumped out of hull below waterline. Any hands on experiences?

[boatman61]

I agree with Dockhead, Bash and a few others...
A bow thruster is a needless extra.... you can spend the money on better things...
like lessons...
a Bene 331 Clipper I delivered had one and it was absolutely bludi useless in a breeze...
all they do is encourage folks to place their vessels into dodgey situations beyond their ablities due to an overconfidence in technology they believe will compensate for a lack of skill...

[sepeteus]

Hey, bugger the bow thruster! Weather in South Australia has been really suitable for experiencing our new yacht. I am so pleased how quickly I learned to maneuver her and docking is piece of cake. Thanks to all for encouragement and happy sailing. Markpierce, no reason to feel intimidated :-)