VETUS Bow Thruster 55Kgf (Product Code: BOW55) is the trusted propulsion upgrade that brings unmatched precision to docking and tight-quarters maneuvering. Built by VETUS, a name synonymous with robust marine engineering, this 12V bow thruster delivers steady, controllable thrust for boats from 8.5 to 12.5 meters, helping you move confidently in crowded harbors, slips, and marina channels.

• Powerful, efficient 12 V DC motor delivering 3 kW of thrust to keep your bow exactly where you want it, even in gusty conditions or confined spaces.
• 55 kgf / ~540 N of thrust with a dual-direction, fully balanced output for symmetric performance and predictable steering responsiveness.
• Compact tunnel design with an internal diameter of 125 mm, simplifying installation on mid-size vessels without compromising performance.
• Bronze streamlined lower leg and a rugged build that stands up to marine environments, reducing corrosion risk and extending service life.
• Six-blade propeller engineered with MARIN to deliver about 9% more thrust, while minimizing cavitation and tunnel noise for a smoother ride and quieter operation.
• Flexible drive coupling eliminates shear-pin failures, enabling smoother engagement and easier maintenance.
• Multi-station control with simple wiring supports flexible helm, bulkhead, or remote control configurations, giving you practical control options without complex wiring.
• Practical power and electrical details — continuous operation up to 4 minutes, current draw around 300 A, and a 250 A slow-blow fuse for reliable protection.
• Integrated battery guidance designed for 12 V systems with recommended 105–200 Ah capacity, plus clear wiring specs (0-12 mm² to 70 mm² range) and dedicated main switches (BATSW / BPMAIN250).
• Designed for boats up to 12.5 m—ideal for yachts and powerboats seeking precise, intuitive control during docking, berthing, and low-speed maneuvering.

Why it matters: with the Vetus 55Kgf, you gain predictable, linear bow control at the moment you need it most. The combination of a compact tunnel, a high-output 12 V motor, and the MARIN-optimized propeller ensures strong thrust in both directions, minimal cavitation, and reduced tunnel noise. The bronze lower leg and robust build mean durable performance in saltwater environments, while the flexible coupling and straightforward wiring keep installation and servicing straightforward—so you can spend more time in the water and less time on maintenance.

Suitable use cases and ideal users

Docking in tight marinas, sideloading into slips, or maneuvering in windy harbor conditions becomes markedly easier with the Vetus 55Kgf. This unit is particularly well-suited for:

• Longer-range yachts and powerboats within the 8.5–12.5 m range needing precise helm control at low speeds.
• Owners who value a compact, installation-friendly tube size that fits a variety of hull configurations.
• Marinas or coastal areas where reliable, repeatable thrust direction is critical for safe berthing.

What to expect versus alternatives

Compared with larger-diameter tunnel thrusters, the 125 mm internal tunnel diameter offers a more forgiving fit on mid-size vessels without sacrificing essential power. The six-blade MARIN-optimized propeller delivers stronger thrust with reduced cavitation and lower tunnel noise, translating into smoother, more controllable maneuvering in gusty conditions or in busy ports. A flexible drive coupling and multi-station control options reduce maintenance headaches and wiring complexity, making this Vetus thruster a practical upgrade over conventional, single-source solutions.

Technical at a glance

• Voltage: 12 V DC
• Thrust: 55 kgf
• Power: 3 kW
• Internal tunnel diameter: 125 mm
• Weight: 20 kg
• Current consumption: ~300 A
• Continuous operating time: up to 4 minutes
• Main fuse: 250 A slow-blow
• Battery guidance: 12 V systems, recommended 105–200 Ah
• Battery cables: 0–12 mm² to 70 mm²
• Control: Multi-station options with straightforward wiring

Manufacturer: VETUS — a brand renowned for marine propulsion reliability and engineering excellence. The Bow Thruster 55Kgf is designed to deliver confident, repeatable performance that makes every port approach calmer, safer, and more enjoyable.