Remote Controls

Wired or wireless thruster control

A wireless remote gives control of the thruster from anywhere on deck, which helps when docking single-handed, but it still needs to be paired correctly to the thruster's receiver and kept charged or fitted with fresh batteries, so a wired panel at the helm is worth keeping as a backup on boats that rely on the thruster regularly. Range and reliability of a wireless fob can be affected by the boat's construction, so check pairing works from the areas you actually intend to use it from.

For boats with more than one helm or a flybridge, a second wired station usually gives more consistent control than relying on a wireless remote alone. Check the remote is rated for the wet, exposed conditions it will be used in, since deck-level controls take more spray than a sheltered helm panel.