R-21EC Stern Thruster

[WaltCh]

I have a 2017 R-21EC. There is a tremendous amount of current where my slip is located. When the tide is really running it's next to impossible to dock it. I was wondering if anybody has ever installed a stern thruster on their 21EC to aid in docking? The bow thruster is worth it's weight in gold to assist in docking, so I therefore concluded that a stern thruster would be equally valuable (if not more so due to the influences of prop walk).

Any help and/or tips would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Capt’nKarl]

I’m not sure where you could mount a stern thruster. Have you considered getting a battery powered trolling motor with remote ? You could probably attach the trolling motor to the swim platform and then control the thrust direction with the remote. I’m sure this would be less expensive than installing a permanent thruster.

 

[WaltCh]

I’m not sure where you could mount a stern thruster. Have you considered getting a battery powered trolling motor with remote ? You could probably attach the trolling motor to the swim platform and then control the thrust direction with the remote. I’m sure this would be less expensive than installing a permanent thruster.

Sounds like a good idea, I appreciate it, it gives me something to think about and pursue, thanks again. Walt

 

[Newf]

I've seen a retractable one installed on a pontoon boat. I believe it was called side shift. Looks like it would be possible to install at the swim platform. Just another idea to look into.

 

[WaltCh]

I've seen a retractable one installed on a pontoon boat. I believe it was called side shift. Looks like it would be possible to install at the swim platform. Just another idea to look into.

Thanks for the suggestion and info, I'll look into that, sounds promising, thank you very much, Walt

 

[bob daily]

WaltCH, I would assume your talking about the Delaware river system judging from your location in New Jersey area. The current is less than what we get on the Columbia river and can be a challenge but is doable with practice. Prior to spending time and money I would recommend practice, practice, practice, prior to any modifications! The size of the rudder with the bow thruster you should be able to dock in a very strong current, take your time and use the current to your advantage and with a little practice you will be a pro in no time! The R-21 is the best/easiest boat to dock that Fluid Motions has ever built. Just my recommendation, Bob

 

[WaltCh]

WaltCH, I would assume your talking about the Delaware river system judging from your location in New Jersey area. The current is less than what we get on the Columbia river and can be a challenge but is doable with practice. Prior to spending time and money I would recommend practice, practice, practice, prior to any modifications! The size of the rudder with the bow thruster you should be able to dock in a very strong current, take your time and use the current to your advantage and with a little practice you will be a pro in no time! The R-21 is the best/easiest boat to dock that Fluid Motions has ever built. Just my recommendation, Bob

Thanks Bob, I think I'll take your advice first and try to hone my docking skills, now's a good time to do it, as others are pulling their boats for the season, lessening the chances of me crashing into another boat while "practicing"! Thanks, Walt