For a large boat on 12 V that needs more than 75 kgf. At this price compare the Sleipner SE80 and its 24 V version.
Amazon $3,729.30 eBayThe Vetus BOW9512D Bow Thruster 95 kgf is the better bow thruster overall, rated 3.2 to 3.1. The Lewmar 185TT 5.0 kW Gen 2 Thruster costs $108.65 less ($3,620.65 vs $3,729.30).
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A 12 V Lewmar for a boat of roughly 40 to 55 ft that needs more than the 185TT 4.0. A Sleipner SE80 costs less per kgf.
Fisheries Supply $3,620.65 eBayScores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every over 75 kgf bow thruster; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Vetus BOW9512D Bow Thruster 95 kgf | Lewmar 185TT 5.0 kW Gen 2 Thruster |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.1/5 |
| Value 40% | 70 $39.26 per kgf ($3,729.30, 95 kgf) | 62 $44.15 per kgf ($3,620.65, 82 kgf) |
| Efficiency 25% | 38 16.7 kgf per kW (95 kgf, 5.7 kW) | 34 16.4 kgf per kW (82 kgf, 5 kW) |
| Run time 25% | 33 3 minutes continuous | 33 3 minutes continuous |
| Weight 10% | 39 3.2 kgf per kg (95 kgf, 30 kg) | 35 3 kgf per kg (82 kgf, 27 kg) |
Specifications
| Vetus BOW9512D Bow Thruster 95 kgf | Lewmar 185TT 5.0 kW Gen 2 Thruster | |
|---|---|---|
| Thrust | ||
| Rated thrust | 95 kgf | 82 kgf |
| Style | Tunnel | Tunnel |
| Propellers | Single | Single |
| Bow or stern use | Yes | - |
| Boat length | 36-55 ft | - |
| Electrical | ||
| Supply | 12 V | 12 V |
| Motor | 5.7 kW | 5 kW |
| Current draw | 650 A | 480 A |
| Continuous run | 3 min | 3 min |
| Build | ||
| Tunnel diameter | 185 mm | 185 mm |
| Weight | 30 kg (66 lb) | 27 kg (59 lb) |
