Meeresoberflächenantriebe

Meeresoberflächenantriebe, often translated as surface drives, are a type of marine propulsion system where the propeller is positioned at the surface of the water. This contrasts with traditional submerged propellers. The primary characteristic of a surface drive is that the propeller operates partially submerged, meaning the upper portion of the propeller is exposed to the air. This design allows for a more efficient transfer of power at higher speeds.

Surface drives are typically comprised of a strut that extends from the hull and supports the propeller shaft. The propeller itself is often a high-performance unit designed to handle the aeration that occurs at the water's surface. This aeration, while potentially causing some inefficiencies at lower speeds, becomes a source of added thrust at higher velocities by reducing the effective water resistance on the propeller.

The main advantage of surface drives is their ability to achieve higher speeds and improved fuel efficiency in planing hull vessels. They can also reduce the draft of a boat compared to systems with submerged propellers, making them suitable for shallow water operations. However, they can be more susceptible to damage from debris or impacts due to their exposed position. Surface drives are commonly found on high-speed recreational boats, racing yachts, and some military vessels where speed is a critical factor.