The test was carried out in classic harbor conditions, with a Quicksilver Activ 805 Cruiser powered by a 300 hp Mercury Verado V8, equipped with the new Joystick Piloting system combined with a variable-speed Vetus bow thruster. This system was unveiled at the Miami Boat Show in February 2025. The aim of the test was to evaluate the maneuvering precision and overall ergonomics of the system.
Well-defined technical prerequisites
The system requires electric steering and the installation of a GPS antenna on deck, a prerequisite for automated navigation functions. The Vetus thruster used during the test read the NMEA 2000 bus, the protocol required for communication with the joystick and SmartCraft modules. Compatible thrusters include those from Vetus, Quick and Sleipner.
Helm behavior: precision and limits
Operation is both intuitive and family-friendly. The joystick allows proportional forward and reverse movements, via a torsion rotation control. When rotation is activated, the boat pivots on itself, with audible intervention of the bow thruster. Pure lateral movement ("crab" mode) is not possible with single-motor operation. However, by alternating forward and aft thrusts, it is possible to obtain an angled movement, sufficient for precise docking.
Semi-automated piloting with regained control
The joystick incorporates dynamic positioning functions, accessible via buttons located below the joystick: Skyhook (position and heading maintained), Bowhook (position only) and Drifthook (heading only). These modes make it possible, for example, to wait for a bridge or fuel station without watching the helm.
The system also allows you to follow a waypoint using the autopilot function. However, the pilot can regain control at any time, instantly interrupting automation.
Extending to other engines
Although tested on a Verado 300 hp, the system is compatible with the entire Verado range from 250 hp up to 600 hp, as well as with MerCruiser blocks from 4.5 L above 250 hp, provided the latter also feature electric steering. This technical openness makes it possible to envisage a wide range of applications on inboard or outboard motorboats.
A practical but still perfectible solution
The test showed that the joystick provides significant maneuvering comfort. Nevertheless, the absence of pure lateral movement may be a limitation in certain demanding docking situations. On the other hand, the device performs well when turning on the spot, keeping the boat stationary even in windy or currenty conditions.
Available during the second quarter of 2025, this system is clearly aimed at boaters wishing to access technologies hitherto reserved for multiple engines.
