One of the most interesting features incorporated into Nilo’s design is the boat’s propulsion system, which employs controllable-pitch propellers (CPPs). CPP systems, from such manufacturers as Hundested Propeller (Denmark) and Lips (Netherlands), have been used in the marine industry for decades. In the commercial world, CPPs are employed in both fixed-shaft units and in steerable (azimuthing) drives, such as azipods, for a wide variety of missions from tugs and ferries to cruise ships and platform support vessels (PSVs). In yacht applications, they are more common aboard sailing vessels than aboard powerboats, although when compared to the more traditional fixed-pitch propeller installations, CPP-equipped boats still represent a distinct minority.

One of the greatest advantages of CPP systems is that they allow the power being delivered by the engine at any given setting to be absorbed more efficiently by the propeller, which has the ability to change pitch through a relatively wide range that not only includes forward, neutral and reverse, but also feathered, a setting that eliminates propeller drag. Therefore, whether at a low power setting that might be used for river or harbor operations, or at the maximum power setting that allows her to achieve more than 26 knots, Nilo can be run efficiently.

Another advantage of CPPs for a high-speed yacht is the smoothness of operation during maneuvering. Unless fitted with trolling valves or two-speed gearboxes, highly powered yachts with fixed-pitch propellers tend to "jump" when the gearbox is engaged. In addition, the boat’s speed at low idle will be relatively high. With CP props, the speed can be very low and maneuvering very smooth. Furthermore, crash stops tend to be much smoother.

In many CPP installations, individual blades can be changed out if one is damaged due to contact with the bottom or a piece of flotsam. This allows the engineer to carry one or more blades as spares, often making repairs quicker and less expensive.