Launched in 2007, Mercury Joystick Piloting was initially integrated with Zeus pod drives for larger sport cruisers.
This pioneering technology empowered users to effortlessly control throttle, shifting, and steering of multi-engine boats single-handedly using a joystick.
Now in 2024, the company launches the system for single-engine vessels.
It negates the requirement for boaters to employ both hands for throttling, shifting, and steering during low-speed manoeuvres like docking.
Some may argue that this represents a decline in navigational proficiency.
The Yamaha single outboard joystick control makes boating easier and more fun.
This advanced technology, not new and mainly used on multiple outboard installations, makes the experience of docking much smoother and enjoyable.
The video demonstrates how easy and intuitive boat manoeuvring at low speeds can be with this system.
The Joystick next to the wheel
Thanks to this joystick, the captain can easily change the boat’s direction and speed with ease. This eliminates the need for extensive steering systems and makes docking even in challenging weather simpler.
It is suitable for both experienced and novice boaters making it more accessible to more people.
Pros and Cons
I know that many RIBbers swear by pure manoeuvring with the throttle and wheel and therefore don’t like this system very much.
It comes down to practicing the right skills. Some say it’s even useless with a single outboard installation.
For newcomers however who can afford this expensive “accessory”, it is a pleasant and easier way to dock.
But make no mistake, it needs a lot of practicing as well to build experience in different weather and water conditions.
This single outboard joystick control is not a panacea.
A 10-meter center console Rigid Inflatable Boat combining the advantages and characteristics of RIBs and rigid boats. It can have up to 20 people on board.
This video shows the renderings of this new model by Zodiac.
Though I like the looks of this Zodiac X10CC, I find myself pondering the authenticity of this vessel’s classification as a true RIB.
They assert that equipped with 2 x 400 hp Mercury outboards, it boasts a consumption rate of merely 3 liters per nautical mile.
Yet, as it’s often the case, critical parameters remain undisclosed, leaving room for scrutiny regarding the veracity of this claim.
The weight/power ratio means it consumes 30% less fuel than a rigid boat of the same size.
Its 760-liter fuel tank gives it a range of around 250 nautical miles.
On their site I found these prices (April 2024): Starting price is € 139 000. Equipped and motorized: € 281 278 ex VAT, including the hard-top and several options, 2 engines Mercury 300 hp outboards and joystick (without freight cost). (source)
