Bowthruster Beneteau 373

[westcott]

Hi

Can anyone help with advice on the siting of a bowthruster on an Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373.

The ideal position would be in the bow forward of the water tank compartment but I am not sure if this would allow enough depth for the prop. I would be grateful for any advice.

 

[Bobdehler]

They seem to be fitted aft of the forward water tank.
I was looking at one ashore in Windermere a couple of weeks ago.
Can Beneteau advise?

Regards Bob

 

[westcott]

Thanks for the reply Bob. However I think the boat you saw must have had the water tank moved forward, as aft of the water tank on the factory layout you have the cabin floor.

I have tried contacting the Beneteau factory but never get a response.

Thanks again

John

 

[Monique]

I saw an advert for an externally fitted thruster in a sailing mag... think it was "Voile et Voiliers". Away from home, so cannot scan ... oops.

Biggest problem I see is the risk of bashing them off with a resultant water way, should you ever bump your bow...

Would add some drag too but they look quite streamlined.

GL

 

[Gelfie]

The bowthruster I fitted to my southerly 115 is only 6 inches below waterline and works well. Go for an 8 inch tube as they work better.

 

[Monique]

Found this..

http://www.exturnusa.com/adminmarinno/home.php?cat=

 

[Bobdehler]

Thanks for the reply Bob. However I think the boat you saw must have had the water tank moved forward, as aft of the water tank on the factory layout you have the cabin floor.

I have tried contacting the Beneteau factory but never get a response.

Thanks again

John

Attached is a picture of it John

Regards

Bob

 

[westcott]

Thanks to everyone for your input and thanks for the pictures Bob. Unfortunately the photograph is of the newer Oceanis 37 and not the 373, but I appreciate the effort.

Regards

John