How to save on fuel given current prices for this summer.
As with automobiles, there are ways to compensate and save, such as limiting your speed, which generates a very significant reduction in fuel consumption. It depends greatly on the person handling the throttle controls.
Consumption doubles if you are at maximum, as shown in the comparisons below.
You also need to better plan your trips. Of course, navigating against the wind and against the natural current of the waterway also increases consumption. So checking the weather can be worthwhile if you can adjust the timing of your boat outing.
If that proves difficult, you can simply adapt your outing according to the navigation conditions present.
Now, if you are in buying mode, what factors should you observe and measure for your next purchase depending on the propulsion type?
Do not forget that having an object (an inflatable gadget) attached to the back of your boat while underway greatly increases fuel consumption.
Gasoline engines.
Whether they are inboard engines (generally 6.2L) or outboards, fuel consumption is similar depending on the boat’s weight-to-power ratio.
Underpowering is not a good idea, and very powerful engines can generate additional costs if the person handling the throttle has a heavy hand.
But in general, if you are very moderate in your use of power, you will probably be more economical.
The right power, somewhere between the two extremes, is always ideal and performs very well.
Of course, the dominance of outboards is clear. It is an excellent choice. Ideally, you should choose twin engines (at least two engines) to allow the use of a joystick.
For example:
Here is the consumption of a 33-foot boat with two 300 HP outboard engines of the center-console type:
Note the difference in consumption at 31 mph compared to 48 mph—it is more than double.
Another example with gas engines, a 32-foot express with two
Mercruiser 6.2L (2 x 350 hp) stern drives:
At 26 mph, consumption is 26 gallons per hour
At 44 mph, consumption is 54 gallons per hour
Diesel engines.
Yes, consumption will be lower than with gasoline engines. Consumption also varies greatly depending on engine revolutions (RPM), similar to gasoline engines. You must always moderate your use.
The same approach applies to engine power—you must respect the boat’s weight-to-power ratio.
By the way, a diesel generator consumes very little fuel.
Some examples of consumption with diesel engines:
Note that consumption goes from single to double depending on RPM
RPM: revolutions per minute.
In this example, fuel consumption doubles at 35 mph compared to 23 mph for a 64-foot boat with two Volvo D13-1000 hp (shaft) engines.
A 60-foot boat with two MAN 800 hp engines (shaft):
For a 52-foot boat with two Volvo IPS 600 (2 x 435 hp):
Note: Volvo’s IPS propulsion is more economical than shaft-driven systems.
We are talking about approximately 25% to 30%, but top speed is slower compared to equivalent models.
Impact on new boats
Of course, new boats require transportation to reach dealers. Sometimes by truck for those under 40 feet (generally), and for those coming from Europe, Asia, or Australia, the cost will increase very significantly.
However, boats already in American territory (North America) will be less affected.
Conclusion
It is therefore possible to enjoy the summer aboard your boat, but by modifying how you handle the engine controls and, of course, by taking the environment into account…
For the purchase of a new or used boat, do not hesitate to contact us—we are experienced and trusted brokers located in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu.
The team of brokers at Ita Yachts Canada and its ProprioBateau division.
Note: The graphs are based on statistics published by Boat Test.
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