The main thing I don't like about the APU's in question, is that they
are not variable speed .... they're either on or off.
Although I agree that we should all concentrate on improving our skills,
I can also see conditions, where no matter how good we get, a thruster
can be a good tool/advantage .... becomes a trade off of what we want
and/or need, I guess.

otn

Steve wrote:
"otnmbrd" wrote in message news:ipmNb.9658

G Frigates don't have bow thrusters, they have APU's, which makes for

some good/bad/screwy ideas, as to how to use them.



Your right with the APU (auxiliary propulsion unit). I racked my brain
trying to remember that acronym.. Been 25 years..

The were lowered down for use and retracted up into the bottom with a
fairing plate so they wouldn't effect the ships speed.. An idea worth
consider for pleasure boats.. Those bow thruster holes must cost a knot or
so in speed. I have a friend who dives down and installs plug in his when he
is headed off shore for a long passage. Makes a big difference, I'm told.

I still think for the OP he should consentrate on improving his boat
handling skills. Especially since a I/O should be easy to manouver, relative
to a prop/rudder boat.

Steve
s/v Good Intentions