This guy is GOOD....and not me!

Are any of you anti-thruster types planning on removing the internal combustion engine(s) from your vessel and returning to oars and sail? What's ya'lls thoughts on Dynamic Positioning? Flanking Rudders? Kort Nozzle? Z Drives? Schottel Drives? Jet Drives? Ever seen a modern cruise ship arrive or depart? According to some here, the lack of skill displayed by the cruise line crews when they use the thrusters is amazing and I wonder why the regulatory authorities allow it to continue.
 
Thruster and IPS drives are similar to automatic transmissions. They make boat driving easier, less technical and more accessible to the inexperienced. I see nothing wrong with anything that keeps someone from bashing into my boat while docking.
It is true that some previously important skills get lost with new advances but that is the direction of technology. I'm sure people said the same thing when engines were first added to boats. "you are not a true boater if you cant dock under sail" or some such.
IMO we have already reached the tipping point where boats without IPS or thrusters are harder to sell. I no longer would consider a stick shift car either.
 
quote:

Originally posted by BoatCrazy

"Unfortunately they get over used and end up being a crutch for poor boat handling skills by some."

Thats why I do not like them and will never own a boat with them.






I take it you have no self control. :-)
 
Not much different than pulling in between two boats at a gas dock. I bow in, when close to seawall, put the outside engine in reverse and she will slide right in. If wind is blowing strong, ask for mate to lasso a cleat and fix it back to midship so you have a bow-midship spring line. Use both engines to make sure you don't bump into boats ahead or in back.

IMHO, this guy should have pulled down the fairway and turned at/right before wall, much easier.
 
Damned cell phones, calculators and computers !

jeez, I miss beeper and slide rule !

RWS
 
Back
Top