Joystick Piloting: Evinrude Engine Exclusivity Explored

Joystick piloting systems are a recent innovation in boating, allowing for fingertip control of boats of any size and making docking easier in any condition. While joystick piloting systems are compatible with a range of inboard and outboard engines, the Evinrude iDock joystick steering system is designed specifically for twin Evinrude E-Tec G2 outboards, ranging from 150 to 300 hp. The Evinrude iDock is notable for its affordability compared to other joystick piloting systems, with a suggested retail price of US$5,999.

Joystick piloting systems: what are they?

Joystick piloting systems are innovative pieces of boating technology that allow for fingertip control of boats of any size. They are designed to simplify complex manoeuvres, enabling the driver to steer the boat in any direction with just one hand. This makes docking, driving, or backing down on a fish a breeze, even in tight spaces or tough conditions.

The joystick is typically pressure-sensitive, with the intensity of the throttle indicated by an amber light at the base. The further the joystick is tilted, the faster the boat will go. The joystick can also be twisted to rotate the boat. The more you twist, the faster the boat will spin.

The systems are compatible with both single-engine and multi-engine boats, and can be retrofitted to a boat if it is fitted with digital shift and throttle controls and steering. They are particularly useful for docking in tight spaces, giving even novice boaters the ability to look like pros. With joystick piloting, the outboards or outdrives can move independently in any direction, allowing the boat to make manoeuvres that were previously impossible, such as moving laterally.

Some joystick piloting systems also offer additional features such as station-keeping, which uses GPS to lock the boat's position and heading, and heading lock. These features can be particularly useful when fishing or waiting for a bridge to open.

Overall, joystick piloting systems offer a premium and luxurious boating experience, providing comfort, class, and total command of the vessel.

How does joystick piloting work?

Joystick piloting systems are a recent innovation in boating, allowing for intuitive control of a vessel using a joystick. They are particularly useful for fishing or navigating marinas and tight spaces. The joystick system is designed to be easy to use, with the ability to move the boat in any direction, including forwards, backwards, sideways, diagonally, and rotating in place. The system is especially helpful for new boaters who are not yet accustomed to manoeuvring in tight quarters.

The joystick is pressure-sensitive, and the intensity of the throttle is shown as an amber light at the base, which shines brighter as the joystick is moved. The joystick can be tilted or twisted, which activates an onboard computer to turn the engines and move the boat in the desired direction. The farther you move the joystick, the more throttle the system applies. The joystick also allows each engine to shift and throttle up or down, enabling the boat to make complex manoeuvres, such as moving laterally.

The joystick system simplifies complex manoeuvres and allows the driver to steer the boat in any direction with just one hand. It provides the driver with greater control, even in challenging conditions, and can compensate for wind and current to keep the boat on course. The system can also be used to hold the boat in place without using an anchor, by using the boat's GPS to act as a virtual anchor and maintain its position.

Different versions of the joystick piloting system are available on the market, with some designed for single-engine boats and others for multi-engine boats. Some systems can also be retrofitted to existing boats, provided they have digital shift and throttle controls and steering. The joystick system has also been integrated with bow and stern thrusters, giving even more precise control at the push of a button.

Overall, joystick piloting systems offer enhanced manoeuvrability, improved safety and confidence, and greater accessibility for boaters of varying abilities.

Which boats can use joystick piloting?

Joystick piloting systems are a recent innovation in boating, allowing for intuitive and precise control of boats in tight spaces and challenging conditions. They are particularly useful for docking, giving even novice boaters the confidence to handle their boats like pros.

There are several joystick piloting systems on the market, each designed for specific types of boats and engines. Here are some of the most popular options:

Evinrude iDock

The Evinrude iDock joystick steering system is designed for twin Evinrude E-Tec G2 outboards, ranging from 150 to 300 hp. It integrates seamlessly with the built-in steering on these engines, making it a relatively simple and affordable option for those looking to add joystick piloting to their boat. The iDock system allows for easy manoeuvring in any direction, including sideways and spinning in place, and its gyroscopic stabilization compensates for wind and current to keep the boat on course.

Mercury Joystick Piloting

Mercury offers a range of joystick piloting systems for both single-engine and multi-engine boats. Their Joystick Piloting for Outboards system works with up to six Mercury outboards, while their Joystick Piloting for Sterndrives system controls and adjusts throttle independently for maximum control. Mercury also offers joystick piloting for single-engine inboards and multi-engine inboards, as well as systems that integrate with bow thrusters.

Yamaha Helm Master EX

The Yamaha Helm Master EX is the only joystick controller option for both single-engine and multiple-engine boats. It offers fine-tuned control, allowing skippers to throttle and turn each engine independently. The system also integrates with satellite-based GPS, enabling the boat to hold its heading and position. Yamaha's joystick is available for Yamaha outboard engines fitted with Digital Electronic Control, ranging from the F150 to the F450.

SeaStar Solutions' Optimus 360

The Optimus 360 joystick control system from SeaStar Solutions can be retrofitted to twin, triple, or quad outboards with mechanical or digital controls. It provides independent engine rotation for nimble manoeuvrability and can be installed by an authorized dealer. The system is compatible with outboard, stern drive, and inboard boats up to 70 feet in length.

Dometic Optimus 360 Joystick

The Dometic Optimus 360 Joystick is designed for boats with two to four outboard engines. It allows for forward, sideways, and lateral movement, as well as rotation on the spot. However, it does not have the capability to integrate with GPS or offer virtual anchors or preset running modes. This system is ideal for low-speed manoeuvres and can be integrated with some autopilot systems.

In addition to these options, there are also joystick piloting systems available from brands like Volvo Penta and Sea Ray. It's important to note that joystick piloting systems typically add a significant cost to the boat, but they offer a premium driving experience and make boating more accessible and enjoyable for novice and experienced boaters alike.

What are the benefits of joystick piloting?

Joystick piloting offers a range of benefits that improve the boating experience for both new and experienced boaters.

Enhanced Manoeuvrability

Joystick piloting improves a vessel's manoeuvrability, giving the driver more control at low speeds. It allows for quick and easy directional changes and the ability to shift from forward to reverse without looking down at the controls. It also enables complex manoeuvres such as moving sideways or diagonally, which are impossible with traditional steering systems. This enhanced manoeuvrability is especially useful when docking in tight spaces or navigating crowded marinas and narrow channels.

Improved Safety and Confidence

Joystick piloting improves safety on the water by providing better control and the ability to react quickly in emergencies. It helps boaters navigate challenging conditions, such as high winds or strong currents, with more confidence. The intuitive nature of joystick controls benefits all boaters, reducing operator fatigue and making boating accessible to a broader range of people, including those with disabilities.

Holding Position and Auto Heading

Joystick piloting systems often include features such as Skyhook®, which uses GPS to hold the boat's position and heading, acting as a virtual anchor. This is particularly useful when waiting for extended periods, such as at a busy fuel dock or for a bridge to open. Auto Heading mode allows the boat to steer itself towards a designated target, such as a distant lighthouse, without the driver needing to keep their hands on the wheel.

Ease of Use

Joystick piloting simplifies the boating experience, especially for new boaters. It reduces the learning curve associated with traditional steering systems, making even complex manoeuvres easier to execute. This ease of use gives boaters more confidence and reduces stress, allowing them to focus on enjoying their time on the water rather than anxiety over docking or steering.

Compatibility and Retrofit Options

Joystick piloting systems are available for a wide range of boats, including single and multiple engine setups, and can be integrated with electronic power steering or hydraulic steering systems. Additionally, some joystick systems can be retrofit to existing boats, making this technology accessible to a broader range of boaters.

How much does joystick piloting cost?

Joystick piloting systems are an innovative feature in the boating world, offering a premium driving experience. The cost of these systems varies depending on the brand, the number of engines, and the specific features included.

The Evinrude iDock joystick steering system is one of the most affordable options on the market, adding only $5,999.99 to the cost of a new boat. It is designed to work with select models of Evinrude E-Tec G2 outboards ranging from 150 to 300 hp and offers intuitive control and gyroscopic stabilization.

The Yamaha Helm Master EX, on the other hand, is a more expensive option. It is available for Yamaha outboard engines fitted with Digital Electronic Control, ranging from the F150 to the F450. While the exact price is not mentioned, it is likely to be higher than the Evinrude iDock system.

The Mercury Joystick Piloting system also falls into a higher price bracket, with prices starting at around $14,000 and ranging upwards to $34,000 or more, depending on the number of engines. This system is designed for boats with multiple engines and offers features such as heading hold, route set, and station hold.

Another option is the Dometic Optimus 360 Joystick, which is compatible with engines from Suzuki, Honda, or Oxe Marine. While the exact price is not mentioned, it is described as a "relative steal" compared to other joystick systems, likely falling in a lower price range.

Lastly, SeaStar Solutions' Optimus 360 joystick control system can be retrofitted to twin, triple, or quad outboards with mechanical or digital controls. The cost of this system is estimated to be around $20,000 for a typical installation, but it may vary depending on specific requirements.

It is important to note that these prices are for the joystick piloting systems alone and do not include the cost of the boat or any additional engine upgrades that may be required.

Frequently asked questions