New VETUS BOW PRO Bow Thruster Models

VETUS has set a new industry standard in DC thruster power with the launch of its first BOW PRO Boosted units for 400-mm tunnels, which will be previewed for the first time at METSTRADE 2022.

Expanding the VETUS line-up of advanced BOW PRO models, the BOW PRO Boosted 385 (BOWB385) and the BOW PRO Boosted 420 (BOWB420) are the most powerful fully proportional brushless thrusters available on the market with 48VDC compatibility.

The latest models bring the unique benefits of VETUS BOW PRO thrusters to owners and operators of larger boats, with installations ideal for vessels from 25m to 40m (82ft to 131ft).

The Specs

Offering a power output up to 385 kgf (BOWB385) and 420 kgf (BOWB420) at 48V, the two new units feature all the renowned innovations that differentiate the efficient VETUS BOW PRO thrusters from conventional units. Skippers and crew will have precision proportional control and can be confident they can extensively use their thruster system when docking or maneuvering without the fear of overuse or overheating issues.

All BOWB units feature an intelligent motor controller with integrated boost function, charging the bow thruster’s batteries using VETUS’s internal three-stage charging process. This solution enables connection to a 24V power supply to recharge the 48V battery bank to keep the thruster batteries at their optimum level.

The proprietary VETUS motor controller also regulates the maintenance-free brushless induction motors, ensuring the thrusters are very efficient and quiet. Active heat control and a low power consumption give the BOWB thrusters a runtime only limited by the size of the battery pack installed – a unique feature for DC thrusters.

Installation and maintenance of these thrusters is safe, fast, and easy, with the units integrating seamlessly with the proprietary VETUS V-CAN system for plug and play convenience.

VETUS Speaks

Thijs Boegheim, Sales Director EMEA of VETUS-Maxwell, said: “VETUS is proud to expand the BOW PRO family to 24 thrusters with the units for 400-mm tunnels. The launch of the BOWB385 and the BOWB420 will make life easier on board for even more boaters, answering demand for powerful, reliable and efficient bow thrusters that offer built-in safety features and easy integration with 48V platforms. As leading technology specialists in the sector, VETUS can guarantee its thrusters are the best quality solution for almost every boat.”

The BOWB 400 series is compatible with VETUS’s standard proportional control panels—the BPPPA single thruster paddle panel, the BPPJA single thruster joystick panel with hold-to-dock functionality and the DBPPJA 360-degree double thruster joystick panel. As the BOW PRO is V-CAN-controlled with CAN-bus protocol operation, the thrusters also offer the opportunity for interaction with other compatible devices, such as docking systems, for optimal performance.

The launch of the BOWB 400 series follows the introduction of three models in the BOWB 300 series for 300-mm tunnels.

The BOW PRO Boosted 385 (BOWB385) and the BOW PRO Boosted 420 (BOWB420) units are available on request. For further information, visit www.vetus.com.

About VETUS – Creator of Boat Systems

Founded in 1964, VETUS sets the global standard in the design and manufacturing of complete onboard boat systems—including engines, generators, bow thrusters and control panels—for recreational and small commercial vessels. VETUS prides itself on innovation and engineers the majority of its 4,000+ product lineup in-house. The company’s commitment to quality, reliability and delivering a superior customer experience has earned the trust of boaters, yacht builders and marine training establishments all over the world.

VETUS has its headquarters in the Netherlands, with subsidiaries in 17 other countries and an unparalleled worldwide distribution and service network.