Abstract: In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a new and improved compass-type, retractable marine thruster apparatus comprises a housing pivotally mounted on a base that can be attached to the stern of a vessel, a tubular member having an upper section extending into the housing, a hub attached to the lower end of the tubular member, a cross-vane hydraulic motor in the hub and having a propeller mounted directly on its output shaft, a swivel assembly at the top of the tubular member arranged so that oil under pressure can be fed to a plurality of lines that are connected to the motor, a steering motor for rotating the tubular member about its longitudinal axis, and an hydraulic cylinder that can be extended to pivot the tubular member, hub and propeller out of the water.