Jim Woodward wrote:

Interesting. It's amazing to watch a vessel equipped with a VS drive --
they really can go in any direction with full thrust.

I'd worry about efficiency -- the end plate is a larger problem in a small
one than in a large one, a VS is not as efficient as a propeller, and you'd
probably have to go diesel electric or diesel hydraulic in order to retract
it, and both are lossy.

Do you know what it costs?

That's why I said it was not ready for prime time. It would be fun to
dock though. Especially with a retractable bow thruster. A pas de
bouree up to the end of the pier and with a quick piorette and a short
petit jete you are into your slip. (Tutus and leotards optional)

The web site said to contact about prices and if it were objectionable
they would let you know when the production gets above 10 in a batch.

--
Glenn Ashmore

I'm building a 45' cutter in strip/composite. Watch my progress (or lack
there of) at: http://www.rutuonline.com
Shameless Commercial Division: http://www.spade-anchor-us.com