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Hey Guys. As the title states, I’ve got a new R30 ordered but with Volvo power and joystick, but not Mercruiser. As such no Skyhook. Those of you with this option, is it something that I can do without or is it a game changer that I need to address. Thanks for any and all advise.

I think a lot depends on where you boat. If you frequently need to stay in place waiting for bridges, locks or the fuel dock then I would think it would be a nice thing to have. Otherwise I don’t think I would miss it.

i have a 296 with Axius and no Skyhook. The only real advantage is that you can leave the helm and supposedly the boat will maintain heading and position. I test drove a Formula 290 with Skyhook and was not too impressed with how stationary it kept the boat (others may have had a better experience). When waiting at the fuel dock or other situations, the regular joystick makes it very easy to stay in your preferred heading and position. The regular joystick is really amazing in tight spots. You will learn to use it more sparingly as time goes on, as standard twin engine handling techniques suffice in many situations.
One big downside is that Skyhook also comes with an auto heading function (Axius Premiere). That is something I would have liked for my long, no wake harbor putts. All in, not a deal breaker,