The present invention relates to a transverse or longitudinal thruster made for a floating or submersible vessel. The thruster includes a male part extending transversely to the axis ZZ' and of shape complementary to a female shape of a well having a longitudinal shape. The male part is attached to a maneuvering support arm of a cylindrical shape, and is arranged to slide longitudinally inside the well along its axis. The support arm passes through a guide bearing to the well with a clearance .DELTA..sub.1 between their respective complementary shapes. The clearance .DELTA..sub.1 is compatible with a clearance .DELTA..sub.2, obtained between the transverse male part and the edge of the well, where it joins the hull when the thruster is in the extended position. The clearances .DELTA..sub.1 and .DELTA..sub.2 are arranged to enable the male part to bear against the edge of the well to transmit thrust forces created by the thruster to the hull of the vessel.