New to forum , 78 34 mainship Mk1

[Alaskasbear]

Agreed. I've done 8000 miles and probably 100 locks on mine, original configuration with no thruster, mostly solo. Autopilot is a must for me, but I don't feel the need for a thruster. Boat responds well to rudder and throttle inputs.

That's my opinion as well. Read the tide and winds and take your time and it shouldn't be an issue. Now bow thruster would certainly make it easier but not really necessary imo.

 

[Comodave]

I ran a model 1 for 14 years. Never had a thruster, never really had a problem with control. The rudder is plenty large enough for close quarters.
Just have to learn the back and fill procedure.
Wish I never sold it.

Didn’t you repower it?