Mercury Marine is expanding its range of boat controls with a joystick solution for boats with just one outboard motor. The new system integrates the control of the outboard motor with a bow thruster, enabling easy manoeuvring even on single-engine boats.
How the Mercury joystick system works
The joystick control combines the steering, throttle and shifting of the outboard motor with the control of a bow thruster. This allows 360-degree turns and sideways movements, which was previously only possible on multi-engine boats. The system is compatible with Mercury Verado and Sea Pro outboards from 250 to 600 hp, provided they have electric steering. CAN-based variable-speed models from various manufacturers can be used as bow thrusters.
Additional assistance functions are available in combination with the Mercury navigation sensor and SmartCraft Connect. These include digital anchor systems such as Skyhook (locked position and course), Bowhook (locked position) and Drifthook (locked course). These keep the boat in position regardless of wind and current - practical when fishing or waiting in front of bridges, for example. An autopilot can also be integrated.
Operation and control
The joystick enables proportional control of forward and reverse movement. The rotary function activates the bow thruster continuously. According to Mercury, operation should be intuitive and possible with just one hand. The system utilises next-generation SmartCraft Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) technology for smooth gear changes and direct throttle response.
Mercury will offer the joystick control for single-engine outboards to boat manufacturers and Mercury dealers from the second quarter of 2025. It is suitable for new boats as well as for retrofitting existing boats. Beginners and less experienced skippers in particular should benefit from the simplified manoeuvrability.
About Mercury Marine
Mercury Marine is a division of Brunswick Corporation and one of the world's leading manufacturers of boat engines and propulsion systems. Founded in 1939 and headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, the company produces outboard and inboard engines, sterndrives, propellers and accessories for recreational and commercial applications.
Briefly summarised:
- Compatible with Mercury Verado and Sea Pro outboards from 250-600 hp
- Electric steering required
- Supports CAN-based bow thrusters with variable speed
- Digital anchor systems: Skyhook, Bowhook, Drifthook
- Next generation SmartCraft Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS)
- Available from quarter 2 2025
Ralf Marquard
Deputy Editor in Chief BOOTE
