May 21, 2019

SeaStar Solutions, now part of The Dometic Group, and the leader in marine steering and control systems, was recognized with a 2019 Top Product Award from respected marine business journal Boating Industry magazine. The award was presented for the new Dometic Optimus Universal Electric Steering Actuator, built exclusively for use with the popular Optimus Joystick and Electric Power Steering systems.

To earn this prestigious award, a product must stand out from among hundreds of nominations representing every segment of the marine industry, including boats, engines, electronics, controls, accessories, apps and more.  

“We are honored to receive this special recognition from the editors of Boating Industry,” said Eric Fetchko, President of Dometic Marine Americas.  “When we previewed this product at the 2019 Miami International Boat Show, I gave my word that we will never stop innovating and solving industry problems. This award validates our company culture, and demonstrates to the industry that we will continue to strive to deliver better products that enhance the boating experience.” 
In terms of steering performance, long-term reliability and ease of installation, the new Dometic Optimus Universal Electric Steering Actuator provides substantial benefits for boat builders and boat operators alike.

With its powerful drive train, integrated proprietary position sensors and embedded electronics, it eliminates the need for separately mounted hydraulic actuators currently used in the Optimus Joystick and EPS systems. This means no more Pump Control Module, no more hydraulic pump, no more hoses, hydraulic cylinders and fluid, and no more purging the system. 

This highly advanced, yet simplified steering system is a more robust solution that will deliver immediate, smooth and precise steering performance for a wide range of vessels, including those with twin, triple and quad outboard installations.  Programmable steering settings, including adjustable speed-sensitive lock-to-lock turns, adjustable speed-sensitive wheel effort, and speed-sensitive rudder angle limits are available to ensure safe operation of high-performance boats, without the need for any extra components.

The award-winning Optimus Electric Steering Actuator will be available in late 2019 to OEMs installing Optimus Joystick and Optimus EPS systems. For more information on Dometic Optimus systems, or the many products Dometic offers to boat builders and boaters, please visit www.seastarsolutions.com.