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 eBay$4,013.39
The Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V is the better bow thruster overall, rated 3.9 to 3.7. The Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V leads on efficiency and value. The Vetus BOW9524D Bow Thruster 105 kgf wins on run time. The Vetus BOW9524D Bow Thruster 105 kgf costs $111.98 less ($3,901.41 vs $4,013.39).
Prices were last checked November 9, 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. As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Vetus BOW9524D Bow Thruster 105 kgf
#3 in Over 75 kgfFull review
The 24 V version of the BOW9512D for a 36 to 55 ft boat. It gives 10 kgf more thrust from half the current.
Fisheries Supply $3,901.41 eBay$3,901.41
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V for efficiency (20 kgf per kW (130 kgf, 6.5 kW) vs 18.4 kgf per kW (105 kgf, 5.7 kW)) and value ($30.87 per kgf ($4,013.39, 130 kgf) vs $37.16 per kgf ($3,901.41, 105 kgf)).
- Choose the Vetus BOW9524D Bow Thruster 105 kgf for run time (3.5 minutes continuous vs 3 minutes continuous).
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 BOW9524D Bow Thruster 105 kgf |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Value 40% | 86 $30.87 per kgf ($4,013.39, 130 kgf) | 73 $37.16 per kgf ($3,901.41, 105 kgf) |
| Efficiency 25% | 86 20 kgf per kW (130 kgf, 6.5 kW) | 63 18.4 kgf per kW (105 kgf, 5.7 kW) |
| Run time 25% | 33 3 minutes continuous | 50 3.5 minutes continuous |
| Weight 10% | 50 3.5 kgf per kg (130 kgf, 37 kg) | 50 3.5 kgf per kg (105 kgf, 30 kg) |
Specifications
| Sleipner SE130 Tunnel Thruster 12V | Vetus BOW9524D Bow Thruster 105 kgf | |
|---|---|---|
| Thrust | ||
| Rated thrust | 130 kgf | 105 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 | 24 V |
| Motor | 6.5 kW | 5.7 kW |
| Current draw | 800 A | 320 A |
| Continuous run | 3 min | 3.5 min |
| Build | ||
| Tunnel diameter | 250 mm | 185 mm |
| Weight | 37 kg (81.6 lb) | 30 kg (66 lb) |