Clean, efficient, and future-ready

Electric propulsion plays an increasingly important role in various vessel types and

operations. From emission-regulated zones in Europe to innovation-driven inland shipping

and hybrid systems worldwide, the demand for propulsion solutions that are cleaner,

quieter, and more efficient continues to grow.

Hydromaster supports this transition with modular electric propulsion systems that

combine our 360-degree steerable thrusters with electric motors, frequency drives, and

control integration — tailored to the vessel’s design and power profile.

We deliver propulsion solutions that power hybrid, battery-electric, and all-electric vessels

in commercial and government operations worldwide. With all our expertise, knowledge
and experience we add value to the table and we help our customers to ensure their speed
and accuracy while sailing.

Built for modern maritime operations

Electric propulsion simplifies vessel design and reduces onboard complexity. With fewer mechanical components and no exhaust systems, it offers lower maintenance, less onboard noise, and greater operational efficiency. New technologies, with endless possibilities: electric propulsion offers a lot of benefits in the field of maritime operations.

Hydromaster’s electric azimuth thrusters are particularly suitable for:

Inland waterway vessels
Short-distance ferries and shuttle services
Hybrid and zero-emission government platforms
Double-ended ferries and other low-noise applications
Low and high speed vessels. With our High Speed Thrusters
we cater for vessel speeds reaching 28 knots

We offer a range of configuration options to meet different performance and integration needs:

Transom mounted thruster units
Inboard azimuth thrusters (well-mounted)
Retractable azimuth thrusters

We can tailor everything to your vessel’s layout, power system, and operational profile.

Hybrid propulsion systems

Hydromaster also provides propulsion solutions for parallel and serial hybrid

configurations. Our steerable thrusters integrate seamlessly with generator sets, control systems, and energy management platforms, allowing vessels to switch between power sources depending on route, operational mode, or emissions requirements. We work closely with designers and shipyards to ensure each system delivers optimal performance, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

Ready for zero-emission
compliance

Emission regulations are becoming increasingly stringent in countries and regions such as the Netherlands, Northern Europe, the United States, and Canada. Hydromaster supports these changes with electric and hybrid-ready propulsion systems designed to meet current compliance requirements and adapt to future regulatory developments
without compromising performance.

Our systems are also fully compatible with DP vessels and other specialized operational modes.

Projects in electric propulsion

Curious about what kind of projects we delivered in the last couple of years? We will share some amazing projects with great innovative examples of our electric propulsion systems.

Hydromaster has delivered electric and hybrid thrusters for a growing number of advanced vessels — including fully electric inland ships and hybrid ferries operating under strict emission guidelines.

Hwang Chang No 33 – Split hopper barge
(Built in Singapore, used in Taiwan)

We delivered 2x Series 4 transom-mounted azimuth thrusters for this 50m long, diesel-electric 500m3 split hopper barge. Powered by 300 kW electric motors, these thrusters enable the barge to reach speeds up to 10 knots.

Research vessel (Netherlands, used at Sea)

For this 36m research vessel, we supplied a 120 kW steerable jet thruster and a 110 kW tunnel thruster, both powered by vertical electric motors. These systems enable precise maneuvering for research operations at sea.

Cruise vessel ‘SWIFT’ (United Kingdom)

We provided 2x Series 3 well mounted Azimuth L-drive propulsion units for this 34m cruise vessel. With 150 kW electric motors, these thrusters ensure quiet, efficient operation for the Lake Windermere cruises.

Full electric catamaran 130m (Built in Tasmania, used for route Buenos Aires, Argentina – Montevideo – Uruguay)

We supplied 2x retractable bowthrusters for this full electric 130m catamaran, built by Incat Tasmania. These thrusters enhance maneuverability and fuel efficiency, supporting efficient, eco-friendly operations.