RETRACTABLE PROPULSION SYSTEM
SPEED, ACCELERATION AND MANOEUVRABILITY

Acceleration, maximum speed under sail and manoeuvrability are key design parameters for performance sailing yachts, so a retractable propulsion system (RPS) is an appealing solution for yachts seeking efficient sailing and a competitive edge.

By ensuring a clean and flush underwater hull shape when the engine is not in use, the RPS eliminates propeller drag therefore enabling higher speeds, acceleration and enhanced manoeuvrability.

  • Provides the helmsman with a highly versatile tool for manoeuvring
  • Propeller leg rotates so that it can work as a stern thruster
  • Eliminates the need for a separate space- and power-hungry stern thruster
  • Increased acceleration - at 10 knots of boat speed there is a gain of 7 seconds per nautical mile
  • When racing RPS offers improved manoeuvrability on the start line and at mark roundings
  • More efficient motoring with a horizontal-drive, pulling propeller
  • The ability to keep all moving parts dry and free of fouling

HOW RPS WORKS

Baltic’s RPS consists of a drive leg fitted with a pulling propeller that retracts into the yacht’s hull. Hydraulically-powered doors are then deployed to close the aperture and make the hull surface flush. Water in the aperture is then expelled pneumatically to reduce weight. A unique feature is the RPS's ability to rotate through 360° so that the unit can double as a stern thruster. Maximum propulsion power can be used when manoeuvering sideways, compared to a traditional stern thruster which develops only a fraction of the power.

TRIED, TESTED AND EASY TO MAINTAIN

Since its conception, the RPS has undergone rigorous R&D to find the optimal configuration. Continous feedback has been used to make the system more robust and reliable. For example, a lot of work and resource has gone into finding the best way to mount the drive leg to the hull in order to reduce noise and vibration and thereby increase comfort. While the RPS is more complex than a traditional shaft drive propulsion system, Baltic has developed it in the simplest way possible with the fewest moving parts. To enable straightforward engineering and maintenance, all moving parts are on the dry side and service points are accessible from the engine room.

YACHTS EQUIPPED WITH RPS

Baltic 112 Liara

Liara is a genuine multi-role sailing yacht providing a super-comfortable cruising platform with the ability to be transformed quickly for...

MORE

Baltic 108 WinWin

This spectacular 108-footer is designed by Javier Jaudenes. The modern, powerful lines typified by the wide transom combine with lightweight...

MORE