How to Choose the Right Dockmate Remote for Your Boat

If you’re looking to make docking easier, safer, and more stress-free, a Dockmate wireless remote control system is the perfect solution. But with several models available, how do you know which Dockmate remote is right for your boat?

This guide will help you understand the minimum requirements, how your boat’s control system affects your choice, and which premium features you might want — so you can select the ideal Dockmate system for your needs.

Minimum Requirements for a Dockmate Remote

Before you choose a Dockmate remote, it’s important to know your boat meets the minimum requirements. At a minimum, your boat should have:

• Electronic engine controls (or a Dockmate M2E interface if you have mechanical controls)

• An electric or hydraulic bow thruster and/or stern thruster (if you want thruster control)

If you’re not sure whether your boat is compatible, your Dockmate dealer can evaluate your setup and recommend any upgrades needed to install a Dockmate system.

Your Control Manufacturer Matters

One of Dockmate’s biggest advantages over competitors is its direct, high-level integration with major OEM control systems. Unlike other wireless remotes that simply mimic helm functions mechanically, Dockmate communicates directly with your boat’s control system for unmatched precision and reliability.

Dockmate is compatible with the most trusted marine control manufacturers, including:

• ZF Marine

• Glendinning

• Volvo Penta

• Twin Disc

• MAN

• Caterpillar

• Mercury

• Aventics

Knowing your boat’s control brand will help your dealer recommend the right Dockmate model and any optional modules needed to unlock its full potential.

Premium Features to Consider

Not all wireless remotes are created equal. Dockmate offers advanced features that make docking even easier — and choosing the right remote ensures you get the functionality you want.

Here are just some  premium features to look for:

• ThrusterHold  (Optional) – Keeps your thrusters engaged continuously so you don’t have to hold the button, which is especially useful in strong wind or current.

• Stern Thruster Simulator  (Standard) – If your boat doesn’t have a stern thruster, Dockmate can simulate one using your engines and bow thruster, giving you better maneuverability.

• SoftDocking (Standard) – Precise personally calibrated transmission engagement that delivers a controlled, consistent, gentle “bump” at the push of a button or flick of a joystick — making every maneuver smooth and deliberate.

  
  

• Proportional Throttle (Optional) -- Smooth Proportional control on our Twist- (Standard) on our Vector 

  
  

• Throttle Plus (Standard) --A predefined throttle range with a programmable ramp-up curve, delivering a controlled, linear increase in power that emulates proportional throttle — without the complexity or cost of full proportional systems.

  
  

These are just some of the features that set Dockmate apart from the competition and give you greater confidence at the helm.

Which Dockmate Remote Should You Choose?

Once you’ve identified your boat’s control system and decided which features matter most to you, you can choose from Dockmate’s range of remotes, including:

• Dockmate Single – Perfect for single-engine boats.

• Dockmate Twin – Designed for twin-engine boats.

• Dockmate Twist – Features (Optional) proportional control of throttle and thrusters with a joystick.

• Dockmate Red – A basic cost conscious entry-level option for boats with analog Controls (2001-2005 era) 

Each model is engineered to provide reliable wireless control of your boat, customized to your specific setup.

Ready to Upgrade Your Docking Experience?

Choosing the right Dockmate remote starts with understanding your boat’s controls and your docking preferences. Your local Dockmate dealer can help you evaluate your boat, recommend the right system, and install it for you.

Take the stress out of docking — and take full control of your boat — with a Dockmate wireless remote control system.

Contact your Dockmate dealer today to find out which model is right for you.