Tunnel Thruster

Reliable lateral thrust and precision maneuvering for modern Vessels

The Marine Thruster Transverse (MTT) is a high-performance bow or stern tunnel thruster engineered to deliver dependable lateral thrust for superior vessel maneuverability and station-keeping. Designed for integration into both newbuilds and retrofits, the Tunnel Thruster or Transverse Thrusters as it is also called ensures reliable performance across offshore, commercial, and governmental marine applications.

Key features and advantages of our tunnel thrusters

Reliable side thrust for docking and dynamic positioning (DP) operations

Standard oil condition monitoring for proactive maintenance and longer service life

Robust design suitable for continuous duty in demanding conditions

Compact configurations available for intermittent duty in non-DP vessels

Seamless integration with Berg Propulsion’s Control System (MPC) for unified propulsion management

Why choose our tunnel thruster

Engineered for precision and durability, our Tunnel Thruster stands out for its proven reliability, advanced monitoring capabilities, and integration flexibility. Whether installed as a bow tunnel thruster or stern thruster, it delivers efficient side thrust that enhances vessel control during tight maneuvers and dynamic positioning. 

This system ensures lower operating costs, increased uptime, and confidence under challenging maritime conditions.

Tunnel thruster for Offshore Supply Vessel Application

Tunnel Thrusters as Swing-in/Swing-out

Applications across vessel types

The Tunnel Thruster system suits multiple vessel types, including cargo vessels, yachts, offshore support vessels, ferries, and fishing boats.

Cargo

Improved handling during berthing and harbor operations

Offshore

Reliable station-keeping and dynamic positioning (DP) assistance alongside rigs and FPSOs

Fishing

Enhanced control in tight harbors and near fishing grounds

Ferries and RoRo

Smooth docking and low-speed handling

Super Yachts

Quiet and efficient lateral thrust

Research

Precise maneuvering and stable positioning during scientific operations

Technical overview

Specification

Detail

Type

Bow / Stern Tunnel Thruster

Operation Modes

Continuous / Intermittent Duty

Pitch Options

Fixed Pitch / Controllable Pitch

Power Source

Electric / Diesel Engine / Hydraulic

Integration

Berg Propulsion’s Control System (MPC)

Monitoring

Oil Condition Monitoring (Standard*)

*standard for all controllable pitch propellers and fixed pitch propellers with sizes 318 and up.

How the tunnel thruster works

The Tunnel Thruster or Transverse Thruster operates by generating transverse thrust through a propeller housed within a tunnel that runs across the vessel’s hull. When activated, the thruster creates lateral movement that allows the vessel to shift port or starboard without forward motion. Ideal for docking, berthing, and station-keeping in DP (Dynamic Positioning) operations.

Integration & compatibility with vessels

Our Tunnel Thruster is designed for straightforward integration with onboard automation and control systems. It supports both fixed pitch and controllable pitch propellers, and can be configured for electric, diesel or hydraulic drives. The system interfaces seamlessly with DP systems, auxiliary power management, and remote operation panels, ensuring flexibility for a variety of vessel classes.

Tunnel Thruster with Controllable Pitch Propeller

Tunnel Thruster with Fixed Pitch Propeller

Maintenance & support

Routine maintenance is simplified through oil condition monitoring, which detects early signs of wear or contamination. The thruster’s modular construction allows for rapid servicing and replacement of key components, minimizing downtime.

Our global service network ensures that vessels operating across Europe, USA, the Middle East, and Asia can rely on fast support and readily available spare parts.

Compliance and standards

Our Tunnel Thrusters are manufactured in compliance with leading classification society requirements, including DNV, ABS, LR, BV, and RINA, and can be delivered in accordance with additional classification society rules as required. The system meets relevant ISO marine propulsion standards.

Tailor-Made CPP Solutions for Your Vessel​

No two vessels are the same, and neither are our CPP systems. We collaborate closely with designers to create fully customized propulsion solutions that meet the unique demands of each project. Together, we design the setup that’s right for your vessel.

We tailor everything from propeller size and blade design to gearbox ratios and control system functionality, fine-tuning the entire setup to match your vessel’s performance goals.

Need a tailored solution? Let us know!

Tailor-made solutions for your vessel​

No two vessels are the same, and neither are our propulsion systems. We collaborate closely with designers to create fully customized propulsion solutions that meet the unique demands of each project. Together, we design the setup that’s right for your vessel.

We tailor everything from propeller size and blade design to gearbox ratios and control system functionality, fine-tuning the entire setup to match your vessel’s performance goals.

Need a tailored solution? Let us know!

References

Berg Propulsion Tunnel Thrusters are in service on vessels operating in demanding maritime environments worldwide. Our customer success stories demonstrate how reliable lateral thrust, robust design, and seamless system integration contribute to safe docking, efficient operations, and reduced lifecycle costs.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions​. Don’t find what you are looking for? Contact us directly.

A tunnel thruster and transverse thruster are the same type of device. Both provide side thrust through a tunnel built across the vessel’s hull to assist in docking or maneuvering.

Yes. The thruster is available in both fixed pitch and controllable pitch propeller configurations to suit vessel design requirements.

Absolutely. The Tunnel Thruster is designed for full DP integration, enabling precise thrust control and redundancy for offshore or high-precision operations.

It can be driven by electric motors diesel engine or hydraulic, depending on vessel configuration and power availability.

The integrated oil condition monitoring system provides real-time insights into lubricant quality, helping prevent wear and extend component lifespan.

Yes. Its compact variants are ideal for auxiliary or intermittent duty where full DP capability isn’t required.

Yes. Its modular design and integration compatibility make it well-suited for retrofitting on existing vessels.

Let's discuss how we can help you to choose the right propulsion unit for your vessel!

We are looking forward to hearingfrom you and discussing how we can be of assistance in making sure that your fleet is fully covered.

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