Conventional propeller drive is still the go to propulsion system for the vast majority of ships in service and on order, but podded propulsion systems and thrusters in all their various guises continue to carve out niche markets for vessels where a high degree of manoeuvrability or dynamic positioning is called for.

Originally developed for use in ice, podded propulsion systems have since been most closely associated with cruise ships and yachts although in recent years ice-class tankers, LNG carriers and a number of smaller cargo ships have also been fitted with them. While there are several manufacturers of podded systems, arguably the best known is ABB and its Azipod ranges.