Ships which are required to go astern for long distances are provided with flap rudder integrated into the bow. See also Rotary bow rudder system.
The train ferry SKANE is equipped with a bow rudder. The bow rudder has hydraulically activated flaps, which flank the bulbous bow, which, in normal service, are completely flush against the hull. Only when the vessel is required to go astern for long distances at speeds of 13kt or more, will the flaps be activated.
The train ferry MECKLENBURG VORPOMMERN is provided with bow-flap-rudders, integrated into the bulbous bow and each weighing 21t. The rudders are fixed during forward operation by both hydraulics and mechanical means. They allow the vessel to be steered when travelling back to Trelleborg in reverse. This alleviates the need for the vessel to be turned round in port.