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Keith Hughes

wrote:
Keith Said:

We've had some excellent information in several above posts. What I'm
getting from all this is:

- Inboard pumps to various outlet nozzles can be effective for
maneuvering and very slow speeds.

- Efficient forward-motion propulsion up to 3 or 4 knots is much more
efficient using external propeller (such as 'trolling motor' types).

I'd say that covers it.

My idea is a different one: I have conventional marine propulsion for
running underway, but I wish I could have good fine-control
maneuvering / docking / dead-slow sightseeing based on an inboard pump
driven from my regular marine engine. Especially with a conventional
fixed-propeller / rudder type boat that steers for c*** in reverse,
and is very difficult to turn in a short radius, this would be "Nice".

I certainly agree with that. Our Catalina 30 is in a very tight slip,
and we get a lot of prop-walk with our 3-blade prop. A couple of
thrusters would certainly be handy at times. Cheers,

Keith