bow thruster
Quick Summary
A bow thruster is an auxiliary propulsion device located at the bow of a ship. Its primary function is to aid in maneuvering, particularly at low speeds where traditional rudders are less effective due to insufficient water flow. This device consists of a propeller mounted in a transverse tunnel near the ship's bow, allowing it to push the bow sideways without generating significant forward motion. This capability is crucial for precise control in tight spaces, such as during docking or navigating narrow channels. Some ships may also be fitted with a stern thruster, enabling sideways propulsion or even rotation in place when both thrusters operate in opposition.12
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
