Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V
#1 in Over 75 kgfFull review
For a 43 to 62 ft boat with a big battery bank. Most boats this size are better served by a 24 V version if the maker offers one.
Amazon $4,013.39$4,013.39
The Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V is the better bow thruster overall, rated 3.9 to 3.2. The Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V leads on efficiency and value. The Vetus BOW9512D Bow Thruster 95 kgf costs $279.04 less ($3,734.35 vs $4,013.39).
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.
Vetus BOW9512D Bow Thruster 95 kgf
#4 in Over 75 kgfFull review
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 $3,734.35$3,734.35
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V for efficiency (20 kgf per kW (130 kgf, 6.5 kW) vs 15.8 kgf per kW (95 kgf, 6 kW)) and value ($30.87 per kgf ($4,013.39, 130 kgf) vs $39.31 per kgf ($3,734.35, 95 kgf)).
Scores 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 | Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V | Vetus BOW9512D Bow Thruster 95 kgf |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value 40% | 86 $30.87 per kgf ($4,013.39, 130 kgf) | 69 $39.31 per kgf ($3,734.35, 95 kgf) |
| Efficiency 25% | 86 20 kgf per kW (130 kgf, 6.5 kW) | 26 15.8 kgf per kW (95 kgf, 6 kW) |
| Run time 25% | 33 3 minutes continuous | 33 3 minutes continuous |
| Weight 10% | 50 3.5 kgf per kg (130 kgf, 37 kg) | 55 3.7 kgf per kg (95 kgf, 26 kg) |
Specifications
| Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V | Vetus BOW9512D Bow Thruster 95 kgf | |
|---|---|---|
| Thrust | ||
| Rated thrust | 130 kgf | 95 kgf |
| Thrust at full supply voltage | 160 kgf | - |
| Style | Tunnel | Tunnel |
| Propellers | Twin | Single |
| Bow or stern use | Yes | Yes |
| Boat length | 43-62 ft | 36-55 ft |
| Electrical | ||
| Supply | 12 V | 12 V |
| Motor | 6.5 kW | 6 kW |
| Current draw | 800 A | 610 A |
| Continuous run | 3 min | 3 min |
| Build | ||
| Tunnel diameter | 250 mm | 185 mm |
| Weight | 37 kg (81.6 lb) | 26 kg |