The cheapest way into a Sleipner tunnel thruster, for a small cruiser or runabout. Pick the SE40 if your boat is near the top of its length range.
Amazon $1,341The Sleipner SE30 Tunnel Thruster 12V and the Lewmar 140TT 2.0 kW Tunnel Thruster are evenly matched, rated 3.5 and 3.5. The Sleipner SE30 Tunnel Thruster 12V leads on efficiency and weight. The Sleipner SE30 Tunnel Thruster 12V costs $272.74 less ($1,341 vs $1,613.74).
Prices were last checked November 4, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
The older Lewmar 140TT. Buy it only to replace an existing unit; the Gen 2 2.2 kW version gives 5 kgf more for about $225 more.
Amazon $1,613.74Which should you buy?
- Choose the Sleipner SE30 Tunnel Thruster 12V for efficiency (20 kgf per kW (30 kgf, 1.5 kW) vs 18.5 kgf per kW (37 kgf, 2 kW)) and weight (3.2 kgf per kg (30 kgf, 9.5 kg) vs 2.8 kgf per kg (37 kgf, 13 kg)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every under 45 kgf bow thruster; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Sleipner SE30 Tunnel Thruster 12V | Lewmar 140TT 2.0 kW Tunnel Thruster |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Value 40% | 61 $44.70 per kgf ($1,341, 30 kgf) | 62 $43.61 per kgf ($1,613.74, 37 kgf) |
| Efficiency 25% | 86 20 kgf per kW (30 kgf, 1.5 kW) | 64 18.5 kgf per kW (37 kgf, 2 kW) |
| Run time 25% | 33 3 minutes continuous | 50 run time not published (neutral score used) |
| Weight 10% | 39 3.2 kgf per kg (30 kgf, 9.5 kg) | 28 2.8 kgf per kg (37 kgf, 13 kg) |
Specifications
| Sleipner SE30 Tunnel Thruster 12V | Lewmar 140TT 2.0 kW Tunnel Thruster | |
|---|---|---|
| Thrust | ||
| Rated thrust | 30 kgf | 37 kgf |
| Thrust at full supply voltage | 40 kgf | - |
| Style | Tunnel | Tunnel |
| Propellers | Single | Single |
| Bow or stern use | Yes | - |
| Boat length | 20-26 ft | - |
| Electrical | ||
| Supply | 12 V | 12 V |
| Motor | 1.5 kW | 2 kW |
| Current draw | 245 A | - |
| Continuous run | 3 min | - |
| Build | ||
| Tunnel diameter | 125 mm | 140 mm |
| Weight | 9.5 kg (20.9 lb) | 13 kg (29 lb) |
