Volvo Penta adds joystick control for single-engine Aquamatic systems

The new system will integrate steering, bow thrusters, gears and engine revs into a single joystick control that can greatly help skippers who need to make precise moves to get in and out of tight spaces.

Volvo Penta claims this is the first time an engine-maker has integrated a joystick system to integrate a diesel-engined sterndrive’s steering system with a bow thruster. It can be fitted to new engine installations, and retro-fitted to existing single-engine boats.

Volvo Penta also plans on releasing a version of the joystick system that will not need a bow thruster.  It is fully compatible with Volvo Penta’s Glass Cockpit, which also integrates Volvo Penta’s Autopilot system, which can hold the boat’s speed and heading at the push of a button.

“Docking a boat can be stressful,” Volvo Penta said in a statement announcing the new system.

“Now, similar to the joystick control found on larger multi-engine-installation vessels, easy single-hand control is available for smaller single-diesel-engine boats with Volvo Penta Aquamatic sterndrive installations. 

“The captain simply presses the Docking button on the base of the joystick control, and boat maneuvering features – steering, gear control, bow thruster, throttle – are controlled easily with just one hand.”

Volvo Penta marine electronics product planner Jonas Welinder said the new system made it easy for people to avoid making mistakes.

“Captains have commented on how they’ve gained confidence from this new level of control – especially in tight maneuvers, crowded harbours and strong currents. 

“It’s simply more fun, relaxing and convenient to dock a boat using our Volvo Penta joystick control.” 

At the push of a button marked “Docking”, Volvo Penta’s joystick system allows users to make intuitive adjustments to a boat moving at low speeds.

Push the joystick in any direction, and the boat will follow suit. Twist the joystick, and the boat will pivot the same way.

In the meantime, the joystick’s electronic hub takes care of everything, including bow thruster applications, how fast the engine needs to rev, whether the boat needs to be in forward or reverse, and how much angle needs to be on the rudder.

It also removes the need to worry about prop walk, where the propeller pushes the boat’s stern sideways. Skilled skippers can use the prop walk while docking to help position a boat.

Volvo Penta was asked about Australian availability and pricing for the new system.