Hydromaster

Diesel propulsion for
demanding operations

Diesel propulsion remains essential in marine and inland waterway operations worldwide, especially in areas where electrification is not yet practical. From ferries and pontoons in remote
regions to support vessels, tugs, pushboats, and landing craft, diesel-powered systems continue
to provide the independence, robustness, and power that operators rely on.

Hydromaster delivers steerable propulsion systems for both diesel-direct and diesel-electric configurations. Our thrusters are designed for high thrust, mechanical simplicity, and long service life and are ideal for projects where infrastructure is limited, the range is critical, or fuel efficiency must be balanced with reliability.

Designed for global versatility

Hydromaster propulsion units are used across diverse operating environments – from East African rivers, Southeast Asian coastal waters, and offshore vessels to military pontoon style vessels.

We support vessel types including:

  • Barges and pontoons
  • Tugs, pusher boats and landing crafts
  • Ferries (inland and coastal)

Ready for modern emissions compliance

Where stricter environmental rules apply — including EU Stage V and EPA Tier 4 regulations — Hydromaster systems can be integrated with:

  • Certified low-emission diesel engines
  • Filtration and after-treatment systems
  • Diesel-electric setups using onboard generators


This flexibility allows shipowners to operate diesel vessels in regulated waters while still deploying systems suited for low-support, infrastructure-limited regions elsewhere.

OUR PRODUCTS

Available thruster
configurations include:

  • Deck-mounted and outboard thrusters
  • Drop-down and retractable thrusters
  • Well-mounted azimuth thrusters
  • Tunnel thrusters 


Each system is engineered to provide 360-degree steerability, reliable operation, and efficient integration with your vessel’s propulsion layout.

Projects in diesel propulsion

Hydromaster’s thrusters are operating globally, from modular pontoons in various African
regions to ferries and support vessels across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

33m Roro ferry (Malaysia and Thailand)

We supplied 2x deck mounted thrusters for this 33m Roro ferry, powered by diesel engines. These thrusters provide excellent maneuverability, ideal for river crossings between Malaysia and Thailand.
33m RoRo Ferry

Double ended passenger ferries (Penang Port, Malaysia)

We delivered 2x Series 4 well mounted azimuth propulsion units for each of the four new passenger ferries operating from Butterworth to Penang Island. These systems ensure reliable service and precise maneuvering for high-traffic ferry routes.

Myanmar Port Authority – Split barge (Myanmar / Burma)

For this 250m³ split barge, we supplied a Series 4 deck mounted azimuth propulsion unit and the splitting system. They are all powered by a singular power pack including Yanmar engine, hydraulic power pack, splitting cylinders and controls.

Floating border outpost vessel (India)

We provided 2x Series 4 well mounted azimuth propulsion units for this 46m border security vessel, powered by diesel engines. These propulsion units support high maneuverability in remote areas for border security operations.