sailboat motor mpg

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Efficiently managing fuel consumption is a critical skill for boaters, not only affecting the range of your vessel, but also impacting overall expenses. But unlike cars or trucks, calculating a boat’s fuel usage is more complex due to constantly shifting sea conditions.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the intricacies of estimating and computing fuel consumption for boats, empowering you to make informed choices for an optimal boating experience.

Key Points for Fuel Consumption

Determining the amount of fuel your boat consumes holds several significant advantages:

Range Projection

Understanding your boat’s fuel economy–the amount of fuel needed per mile or nautical mile–helps anticipate the safe distance you can cover with a specific fuel capacity.

Cost Analysis

Calculating fuel usage offers valuable insights into operational costs, particularly when comparing different boats or marine engines for purchase.

Comparison Tool

Many boaters rely on fuel consumption charts or use boat tests as benchmarks for comparison. This allows for smarter decision-making when selecting a new boat or engine based on efficiency.

Due to the ever-changing nature of sea conditions, boat fuel efficiency is measured in gallons per hour (GPH). The metric used is pounds of fuel consumed per horsepower generated per hour, commonly referred to as ‘brake-specific fuel consumption.’

Keep in mind that gasoline weighs approximately 6.1 pounds per gallon, while diesel comes in at around 7.2 pounds per gallon.

The relentless hum of a well-tuned four-stroke gasoline engine can consume an impressive 0.50 pounds of fuel per hour for every unit of horsepower it churns out.

And let’s not forget the tireless diesel engine, which burns through 0.4 pounds of fuel per hour for each unit of horsepower it generates.

But be warned, these numbers only scratch the surface–factors like boat drag, sea conditions, and efficiency losses can greatly affect your fuel burn.

To navigate through this maze, use this formula to estimate your boat or engine’s fuel consumption:

GPH = (specific fuel consumption x HP) / Fuel Specific Weight

Gas = 6.1 lb. per gal

Diesel = 7.2 lb. per gal

The key to unlocking maximum horsepower lies in these formulas, optimized for the engine’s peak performance at wide-open throttle. But don’t be fooled–fuel consumption actually decreases during cruising speeds.

And with advanced electronic and direct fuel injection systems, efficiency is taken to a whole new level.

Unlocking Boating Performance

The roar of the boat motor and the number of miles it can go on a single gallon of fuel are crucial elements to consider while out on the water.

These two concepts, known as ‘boat motor pitch’ and ‘miles per gallon (MPG),’ hold the key to unlocking optimal boating performance. So pay attention, because your next adventure may depend on it.

Boat Motor Pitch

The pitch of a boat motor typically refers to the pitch of the boat’s propeller. The propeller pitch is the distance that the propeller would move in one revolution if it were moving through a solid, like a screw through wood. It’s measured in inches.

A higher pitch means the propeller is designed to move the boat further with each revolution, which can be efficient for speed but may reduce the engine’s revolutions per minute (RPM).

A lower pitch propeller will move the boat less distance per revolution but can increase RPM, potentially offering better acceleration and power for carrying heavy loads.

Choosing the right propeller pitch is crucial for optimal boat performance. It needs to be matched with the boat’s size, weight, and the motor’s power to ensure the engine operates within its recommended RPM range for peak efficiency.

Miles Per Gallon

MPG in the context of boats refers to the fuel efficiency of the boat. It indicates how many miles the boat can travel on one gallon of fuel.

Calculating MPG in boats is more complex than in cars due to variable factors like water conditions, boat weight, and hull design. A boat’s MPG can vary significantly based on these factors.

Higher MPG indicates better fuel efficiency, which is desirable for reducing fuel costs and environmental impact.

Boaters often look for ways to improve their MPG by optimizing the boat’s load, maintaining the engine, and using the boat at efficient speeds.

Assessing Fuel Usage and MPG

Begin by filling your boat’s tank to a precise level and recording the gallons added.

Then, set sail and take note of the distance traveled while considering sea conditions and cruising speed.

Upon return to the dock, refill the tank to the same level and record the additional gallons needed.

Using this information, you can determine the amount of fuel consumed during your trip and calculate your MPG using the formula: Distance Traveled / Gallons Consumed.

This equation is a valuable tool for determining the boat’s fuel efficiency and can be used to plan more efficient journeys in the future.

Many modern engines come equipped with gauges that display the total fuel consumption during a trip, as well as real-time updates on fuel efficiency to assist in saving fuel.

Maximizing Fuel Efficiency

The rumble of a boat motor is like a heartbeat to any avid boater. But did you know that how you trim your boat and manage fuel can make or break your entire experience on the water?

These two concepts are key players in maximizing performance and efficiency, leading you to smooth sailing and unforgettable adventures.

Boat Motor Trim

The trim of a boat motor refers to the angle of the outboard motor or stern drive in relation to the transom of the boat. Adjusting the trim changes the angle at which the hull meets the water.

Proper trimming can significantly affect the boat’s performance. When a boat is trimmed correctly, it runs more efficiently, achieving optimal speed and handling. The goal is to find the trim sweet spot where the boat planes smoothly on top of the water with minimal resistance.

Trimming the motor too low (in) causes the bow of the boat to sit lower in the water, increasing drag and reducing speed and efficiency. Trimming too high (out) can cause the propeller to ventilate, leading to loss of propulsion and potential engine damage.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy in boating refers to how efficiently a boat uses fuel, typically measured in GPH or MPG.

Optimizing the trim of the boat can lead to better fuel economy. When a boat is properly trimmed, it reduces drag and allows the boat to move through the water with less effort and power. This efficiency translates into less fuel consumption for the distance traveled.

Additionally, a well-trimmed boat can also reduce engine strain and potentially extend the life of the motor.

Balancing Trim and Fuel Economy

Achieving the best fuel economy involves finding the optimal trim setting where the boat runs most efficiently. This setting varies depending on the boat’s design, load, water conditions, and speed.

Boaters often use trim tabs or power trim (adjustable with buttons or a lever on the throttle control) to adjust the trim level while underway, constantly fine-tuning for the best performance and fuel efficiency.

It’s important to monitor the boat’s performance indicators such as speed, RPM, and fuel consumption gauge, if available, to determine the most efficient trim setting.

Final Thoughts

Fuel up for success on the open seas by mastering your boat’s fuel consumption and miles per gallon. With this crucial knowledge, boaters can navigate their vessels with confidence and make informed decisions for efficient and cost-effective travels.

Don’t sail blindly–install a fuel monitoring system to track your consumption for ongoing management and worry-free long-distance cruises.

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How Much Fuel Does A Sailboat Consume?

Before setting off for your next sailing journey, you probably want to know how much fuel your boat actually burn. To give you a calculated answer, I have gone through some serious data analysis and wrote this helpful article for you.

So, How much fuel does a sailboat consume? On Average, a 20 – 30 Horsepower sailboat uses about 1.5 – 2.5 gallons of fuel per hour. Bigger engines (40 -50 Hp) uses about 2.5 – 3.5 gals/h.

These figures do not take the weather condition, the drag and size of the boat into account. However, they provide a close estimate that help us understand fuel consumption.

The estimate figures above are just examples of sailboats’ fuel consumption. There is actually a lot to calculating the exact usage which I will shed more light on in the sections to come.

How To Calculate Your Boat’s Fuel Consumption

Through my research, I have come across a few formulas on the boating magazine which allows us to calculate fuel consumption and it is a pretty close estimate. You can use the same formula to calculate both Diesel engine and Gasoline engine usage.

However, you will need to be sure to use the correct fuel consumption rate and fuel specific weight for your specific needs. I will give you these figures in this section.

The formula provides you with an estimate of maximum engine fuel you will be using on your journeys. It is calculated in fuel usage (gallon) per every hour. The actual formula looks like this:

Gallon per Hour = ( Specific Fuel Consumption rate x Horsepower) / Fuel Specific Weight

Here are the components of the above formula broken down to pieces:

Fuel Consumption rate: A well-maintained four-stroke gasoline engine consumes about 0.5 pounds of fuel per hour per every unit of horsepower. Similarly, a well-looked after diesel engine consumes about 0.4 pounds of fuel per hour per unit of horsepower.

In short: Diesel Engines Consumes 0.40 lb per Unit of Horsepower. Gasoline Engines Consumes 0.50 lb per Unit of Horsepower.

Fuel Specific Weight:

These numbers are constants for any type of engine. Diesel weighs = 7.2 lb/gal Gasoline weighs = 6.1 lb/gal

To find out your engine’s fuel consumption, just plug in its horsepower figure and multiply it by fuel consumption rating, then divide the outcome by the diesel or Gas fuel specific weight constants.

This formula will give you an estimate and vary 10 to 20 percent, however, it will guide you to the right direction to plan a long distance sailing journey without fear of running out of gas.

Examples Of Sailboat Gas And Fuel Usage

Let us now bring some examples and apply the above formulas and constants to estimate maximum fuel consumption.

Maine Cat 38 has 19.8 Horsepower diesel engine. How much diesel does it consume per hour?

We now know that The Specific Fuel Consumption Rate (SFCR) for this boat is 0.40 and the Fuel Specific Weight of diesel is 7.2 lb per gallon. Here is how we calculate the maximum consumption:

GPH = (SFCR X HP)/FSW GPH = (0.40 x 19.8)/ 7.2 => 1.1 Gallon per hour.

ClubSwan 50 has 75 hp gasoline engine. How much diesel does it consume per hour?

We now know that The Specific Fuel Consumption Rate (SFCR) for this boat is 0.50 and the Fuel Specific Weight of gasoline is 6.1 lb per gallon. Here is how we calculate the maximum consumption:

GPH = (SFCR X HP)/FSW GPH = (0.50 x 75)/ 6.1 => 6.14 Gallon per hour.

How Much Fuel Do You Need?

If you have a planning hull vessel, you will need more fuel than a displacement hull vessel. Let’s look at some examples of sailboats and their fuel usage.

Real life Example 1:

An 82-gallon tank of diesel powering a 20 hp engine, burning 1.10 gals/h will power the Maine Cat 38 for about 74.5 hours. If we assume that on average sailboats cruise anywhere between 6 – 8 nautical miles per hour. A full tank will give you approximately 450 – 600 nautical miles.

74.5 X 6 = 450

74.5 X 8 = 600

Real life Example 2:

A 27-gallon tank of diesel, powering a 30 hp engine, burning 1.7 gals/hr will power the J/121 for about 16 hours. This translates to around 100 -130 nautical miles of cruising distance.

Real life Example 3:

An 80-gallon tank of diesel, powering a 75 hp engine, burning 4.16 gal/hr will power the ClubSwan 5 0 for about 19.2 hours. This translates to around 120 -150 nautical miles of cruising distance for a full tank.

This calculation shows that it could get very expensive very quickly if you cruise under engine. However, most sailboat sailors can confirm that their boats sail a lot of time. I estimate that to be as high as 70-80 percent of the time.

Technically you only need the fuel for docking and getting in and out of the port. Once on the ocean, sailboats use little to no fuel. The boat is run primarily on wind power which is free of charge. Only on instances when there is no wind to push us forward that we use the motor to power the boat.

However, if you live or sail for a couple of days or more, you may need to run a generator to recharge your battery banks, cool the refrigerator, light the cabin, and use the laptops, etc.

From my research, I have found that on average, sailors run the generators between 3-6 hours each day when they are out on the ocean. So, this is an extra fuel consumption that you need to bear in mind.

For some sailors as soon as the boat’s speed drops to 4 knots, they reach the ignition key. As for me when I am out on the boat, I am in no hurry. I take my time and enjoy every moment that I am out there. Because it is the very place I want to be at the time.

11 Ways To Make Your Boat Fuel Efficient

Now that you know how to calculate the average fuel consumption on your vessel, you will probably want to know what are the ways to save fuel.

My research shows the amount of fuel you use on your sailboat is directly related to the way you handle the throttle and how much you load your vessel, but there are more.

I have found 11 contributing factors that affect your fuel consumption greatly while you are cruising, and we will discuss all of them one by one in this section.

By knowing and making these minor adjustments you will ensure you get much better fuel economy out of your sailboat.

1. Remove Excess Weight

Excess weight causes the engine to work harder to power your vessel, therefore, it will use more fuel. If you are sailing for a while you can easily confirm that boats collect stuff very quickly.

Unimportant items not only take up your storage space, but they also cause your vessel to consume more fuel. So, remove everything that is unnecessary and not used. Make sure that you are only carrying the cargo, supplies, and tools you are really in need of.

2. Use The Wind To Your Advantage

Just like sailing under the wind, use the wind in your favor. Avoid heading directly to the wind as this will force your engine to work much harder to push you ahead and therefore use more fuel. You need to find a balance and you don’t need to go overboard with this.

3. Avoid Carrying Excess Fuel And Water

Unless you have good reason to do so, it is not smart to sail with reserve fuel, excess water, and wastewater on board. These all add up to the weight of your vessel.

If you sail for a day or so there is no point running your boat with a full fuel tank. Fill up as much as you need plus a bit of reserve for the rainy day.

4. Tune up Your Engine

Your boat’s engine should ideally be serviced at least once or twice a year, depending on how much you use it. A tuned up engine will not only run better and it also uses less fuel.

If you haven’t used the engine for one year or more, give it a proper service to make it ready for the sailing season.

5. Pick A Good Prop Size

The right prop size is very important to attain fuel economy on your boat. It is worthwhile to beg or borrow a few props to try out on your boat and see which one gives you the best fuel economy.

6. Keep Your Hull Clean

A clean hull contributes significantly to the fuel economy. Make sure you keep the hull clean by washing it regularly.

7. Avoid Drag

Objects (hanging) on your boat may create excessive air drag and thereby increase your fuel consumption. To avoid drag remove objects that cause drag such as cockpit cover, canvas enclosed T-tops, hardtops, towers and things hanging on the lines of your boat.

8. Reduce Your Speed

Avoid cruising at maximum hull speed. Most motors are most efficient when they are run at about 75% of maximum hull speed.

Unless you intend to make it to a bridge opening or any other legitimate reason, slow down your boat’s speed. The lower your speed is, the less fuel your boat will consume.

9. Avoid Idling

Most of us are guilty of idling when we are on the water from time to time. However, you will be saving a lot on fuel if you just switch off the engine in most cases.

10. Balance The Load

Distribute the weight inside the boat to impove fuel economy.

11. Upgrade The Engine

If you have an older model engine, it is advisable to upgrade it now. As newer engines are designed to run efficiently.

Boat Fuel Consumption: 5 Tips for Measurement, Efficiency, and Savings

Table of Contents

Boat fuel consumption can be a rather significant expense , and it’s one that goes up as gas prices rise. While it’s true that you have to pay to play, there are some measures boaters can take to cut down on this expense as the price of gas goes up.

Here are five tips to help save money on marine fuel for your boat:

Lighten your load by removing excess gear and weight.
When operating, bring the boat on plane, then leave the throttle alone.
Understand how to properly trim your boat—if the bow seems high, trim it down.
Ensure your boat’s propeller is the right size, material, and model to maximize performance.
Keep the bottom of your boat’s hull clean and smooth.

Read on for further details and instructions on implementing each of these five tips, and be sure to use a boat fuel consumption chart to understand your engine’s ideal fuel economy.

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1. Lighten the Load

Many boats get loaded down over time without anyone even noticing, and the heavier your boat is, the less efficient it will be. While some gear is absolutely necessary, some other stuff may not be — and when added up it can weigh a ton.

Think about removing that extra anchor rode, the big box of fishing weights, dishware that never gets used, and similar items from the boat.
Also consider the water and waste tanks, if your boat has them. Can you get by with a half-full water tank? If so, you’ll shed eight pounds per gallon. W
When is the last time you pumped out the waste tank? Again, you can remove a lot of weight from the boat by lowering its level.

2. Bring the Boat on Plane, then Leave the Throttle Alone

As is true with cars, boats tend to burn less gas at slower speeds. Boats are different, however, in that most get the worst fuel economy just below planning speed and the best economy just above it.

There are certainly some exceptions (such as some trawlers and some boats propped to go very fast) but as a general rule, the average outboard powerboat will break onto plane right around 3000 to 3500 RPM. And in most cases, this is where they get the best cruising fuel economy.

Note that on newer board your MPG may be displayed on a gauge at the helm . In this case, simply eyeball that gauge and you can see just when the boat’s getting its peak mileage.

3. Tweak the Trim

Most boats run best on an even keel at a slight inclination of just two to four degrees. But depending on the boat’s design and the weight distribution of gear and passengers, you may need to adjust engine or drive trim and/or trim tabs to get it running this way.

If the bow seems to dig in try trimming the bow up a bit, and if you have to crane your neck to see over the bow, trim the bow down some.

4. Make Sure You Have the Right Propeller

Few boaters ever change propellers to see if they can gain a performance edge, but doing so can add several MPH to your cruising speed, which equates to more miles traveled for less gas burned .

Finding the ideal prop for your boat may take some experimentation; remember that your goal is to turn wide-open RPM in the middle of the manufacturer’s recommended range, and adding an inch of pitch will decrease rpm by about 200, while dropping by an inch will increase RPM by about the same amount.

Also note that switching from an aluminum propeller to a stainless-steel model can gain you one to three MPH, as well.

boat propeller contributes to fuel efficiency

5. Keep the Bottom of Your Boat Clean

Few things sap speed and increase fuel consumption like a dirty bottom. While antifouling paint will keep most of it at bay, its effectiveness can drop with age. Plus, even a freshly-painted boat can develop a layer of scum or slime, and many boats have unpainted underwater surfaces like transducers that growth can adhere to.

So, if your boat lives in a wet slip it’s a good idea to pull up to a sandbar or beach once in a while and gently scrub the bottom.
If there are any areas where more substantial growth has attached, scrape them clean with a rigid object that won’t damage the surfaces, like a plastic putty knife.

Employ all of these tips, and your boat may burn one, five, or even 10 gallons less fuel on your very next trip. Every boat will be different, of course, but no matter how large or small it may be, at today’s gas prices those saved gallons can add up to some serious cash in the bank.

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With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites ranging from BoatU.S. Magazine to BDOutdoors.com. Rudow is currently the Angler in Chief at Rudow’s FishTalk , he is a past president of Boating Writers International (BWI), a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.

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Calculating Boat Fuel Consumption

By Brett Becker
Updated: September 30, 2019

Calculating a boats fuel consumption proves important to boaters for number of reasons. With knowledge of a boat’s fuel economy-how much fuel the boat burns per mile or nautical mile of travel-boaters can estimate the range they can safely expect to run.

Some boaters go as far as to develop a boat fuel consumption chart for their boat. You can use any Boating boat test as a model for this. Of course, you can also install a fuel consumption monitor if your boat’s engine does not provide a fuel consumption readout.

Additionally, knowing your boat’s fuel consumption provides a good idea of how much it will cost you to operate the boat. When shopping for a new boat or marine engine, fuel consumption provides a major basis of comparison.

Estimating Your Boat’s Fuel Burn

It’s a different story with a boat. Since sea conditions vary more widely than road conditions, the time it takes to cover a distance varies more, so fuel consumption is measured in gallons per hour. Also, while many engines have fuel flow readouts , the ability to estimate fuel burn while shopping for a boat or engine is important. You measure fuel efficiency in pounds of fuel used per horsepower developed per hour. The pros call it “brake-specific fuel consumption.” This makes it important to know that gasoline weighs about 6.1 pounds per gallon and diesel fuel 7.2 pounds per gallon.

On average, an in-tune four-stroke gasoline engine will burn about 0.50 pounds of fuel per hour for each unit of horsepower. Likewise, a well-maintained diesel engine burns about 0.4 pounds of fuel per hour for each unit of horsepower it produces. These figures don’t take drag of the boat, sea conditions, or efficiency losses through transmissions and bearings into account. But they provide an excellent relative difference between engines when shopping.

Confused yet? Look at the mathematical examples below, and a boat’s fuel economy should become clear.

Boat Fuel Consumption Formulas and Calculator

Below is the Formula to Estimate Maximum Engine Fuel Consumption.

GPH = (specific fuel consumption x HP)/Fuel Specific Weight

Constants | Gas | Diesel SFC: .50 lb. per HP | .40 lb. per HP FSW: 6.1 lb. per gal. | 7.2 lb per gal.

300-hp Diesel Engine Example GPH = (0.4 x 300)/ 7.2 = 120/7.2 = 16.6 GPH

300-hp Gasoline Engine Example GPH = (0.50 x 300)/ 6.1 = 150/6.1 = 24.5 GPH

Keep in mind that these formulas apply when the engine is making peak horsepower, which usually is near wide-open throttle. Fuel consumption will be decreased at cruising speeds. Also remember that engines with electronically-managed fuel injection and direct injection will yield higher fuel efficiency .

To apply these formulas to your boat, just plug in its horsepower rating and multiply it by the specific fuel consumption average, then divide the product by the fuel specific weight.

Another way is to take the total engine horsepower and divide it by 10 for gas engines or .06 for diesel engines. As you can see, this formula is simpler to calculate and easier to remember. You don’t even need a pencil and paper. It’s just not as accurate as the formulas above. The result represents the approximate gallons per hour the engine will burn at wide-open throttle. For example, a 150-horse engine will use about 15 gallons per hour. Though these figures represent averages and can vary from 10 to 20 percent, they’ll put you in the ballpark so you can plan a long-distance cruise without fear of running out of gas . You can also keep track of your boat’s fuel consumption by installing a fuel monitor.

More: Engines , fuel consumption , How-To

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MPG, could i expect on say a 40' boat?

Thread starter Baja Will
Start date Jan 18, 2009
Forums for All Owners
Ask All Sailors

OK,(again Newbie question) been off here for a few months still narrowing my search for a boat. It has pretty much become clear what ever I buy I will need to get it home. Being I am not an expert sailer, I would like to fall back on the diesel motor. So my question is say on a Beneteau 400 Oceanis 50hp diesel, what MPG could one expect and at what speed. I am guessig 2 mpg, maybe 8 knots? but really have no idea. I would really appreciate any input. Sincerely WILL

That's close if you use fifty HP.

Don S/V ILLusion

the conventional way of measuring fuel efficiency of a boat diesel is in terms of gallons/hr. There are some graphical illustrations on the Yanmarhelp site which can be used to calc typical burn rates but it is a good estimate that you'd see something around 1 gallon/hr at cruising speeds for a 50hp engine running at 80% capacity.

We had a Yanmar 50 in our 430. Cruising at 2800 rpm (approx 75% of max rpm) we averaged about 1.4 gph over the 3 years we owned the boat. The speed depended on tide, current, wind ect.

Mileage on boats is pretty discouraging when fuel prices are high. I used to sneer at Winabagos on the road until I realized that my modest and "efficient" 32 foot sailboat gets about the same mileage under power. For what it's worth, you might want to look at the speed curves for my boat to get an idea how much mileage and range increase when you back off just a bit on the power. To read the graphs, you start with the RPM, go across to the curve of the color that matches the number you are looking for, then up or down to the appropriate scale. The light gray dotted lines show the example for cruise RPM. http://www.rogerlongboats.com/StriderFuelSystem.htm#SpeedRange You can go a lot farther if you have the time.

1.5 GPH at 8kts will be about right for that boat. Find out what the engine manufacturer recommends for cruising RPM speed and go with it. Most recommend 80% of max RPM. Do some simple math and you'll find the savings isn't as great as you might expect. Slower speeds mean you'll be out on the water longer still burning fuel although at a lower rate. Based on a 1000 nautical mile trip running at 6 vs 8kts may save you at best .5 GPH. It will also take you apx 41 hrs longer to get there. Running slower may save apx 21 gals of fuel which at todays rate will cost you about $55. Do you have more time than money? Will you have places to pull into and refuel? How much of hurry are you in? How long of a trip is it? Will you get to shut off the motor and sail any of it? Time yourself with the tides and you can get a free ride. Run against them and you'll burn more fuel. Mike

Thanks for all the input, basically the boat I am looking at is in TX, and I would want it in FL. Maybe it would just be easier to but it on a truck and ship it?? I just don't know if that is an option with the beam being 12'10" Thanks WILL

Missing a great opportunity Find an expierenced sailor and move the boat by sail. What a great way to get to know your new boat. Course she HAS to be seaworthy for this to be an option.

I agree with Bill and Mike.. Find 3-5 guys that are experienced and do the delivery yourself. Make sure the boat is seaworthy and has a few basic spares, get a knowledgeable someone you trust to go over it with you and inspect the critical pieces.. (bring tools) HAVE FUN ! My delivery sail was from Houston to New Orleans, some off shore and lots of Intercoastal Canal motoring.. A very memorable trip!

I had my boat trucked from 2000 miles. It was about 3 years ago. The cost was $6k. They did not charge anything to load and rack the boat on the front end, but they charged to unload at the delivery point. Then you need to worry about re-rigging, restepping the mast etc. Then you need to worry about the road damage. I think you will find it would be better to hire a delivery skipper and have him move it if you cannot find the time to assist.

newly anonymous

a few basics 1. It seems a bit goofy to be shopping for the boat in Texas if you want it to end up in Florida. For every Beneteau 400 Oceanis that you'll find for sale in Texas, five will be for sale in Florida. 2. A boat's range under power is figured by calculating gallons per hour consumed at 80% wide open throttle, times the average speed you'd travel at this setting. The only way to predict the GPH is know what engine you're talking about. (The exact engine model, not just something like "Yanmar 50hp." This is because of factors such as that a normally aspirated engine consumes fuel at a different rate than a turbo diesel.) A given engine is going to have the same GPH numbers regardless of the type of boat into which it's been installed. You can usually get these numbers from the manufacturer, usually on their website. At that point, the only thing you need to complete the calculus is to know how fast the specific boat usually cruises at 80% WOT. A better place to find this number would be the Beneteau owners forum. 3. A Beneteau 400 Oceanis is a sailboat. There is a body of water situated between Texas and Florida known as the Gulf of Mexico, upon which a Beneteau 400 Oceanis would sail quite comfortably. If you do not yet have the navigational expertise to make that trip under sail, you probably don't have enough experience to handle that large a boat. Get something smaller and work your way up. Much smaller. A newbie at the helm of a 40 footer is a truly frightening phenomenon, and I do not want to encourage you to become another boating statistic, mostly because at that point you become a danger to all of us. Go learn why we sailors talk in terms of GPH rather than MPG by taking a basic navigation class. Then come talk.

newly anonymous said: 1. It seems a bit goofy to be shopping for the boat in Texas if you want it to end up in Florida. For every Beneteau 400 Oceanis that you'll find for sale in Texas, five will be for sale in Florida. Click to expand

Baja Will said: Thanks for all the input, basically the boat I am looking at is in TX, and I would want it in FL. Maybe it would just be easier to but it on a truck and ship it?? I just don't know if that is an option with the beam being 12'10" Thanks WILL Click to expand

Again thanks for everyones input. What would be a reasonable fee for hiring a captain for a journey from Houston to St pete??? I believe me going would be the best way for me to learn my new boat also. WILL

When do you want to do it?

Find someone reputable Find someone reputable, then hire them. Or maybe you can find a knowledgable volunteer on this or one of the other sail boards.. You need not only an experienced sailor, to make the journey, but an experienced person to help you make sure the boat is in the proper condition, that you have the proper spares, the proper tools and provisions. It is a very nice trip, and my recommendation would be to make it in April or May.

I strongly agree with "Nice & Easy". I speak from experence and have found that almost all "newly bought used boats" will experence engine problems within 10 hours of use by the new owner. Most used boats haven't been used recently and suffer fuel or other problems or have been neglected prior to sale and this becomes appearent upon their first extended use. Using a delivery captain or sailing instructor for your first major relocation allows you the benefit of his expertice in looking over your boat both for safety and mechanical soundness and gives the new owner a very valueable 1 on 1 lesson in sailing. The added cost to do this will probably be much less than having a major equipment failure and the associated costs of a hurried and stressed repair that benefits only the repair shop. Just my thoughts but they are well founded. Good luck and fair winds. Ray

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How to Calculate Outboard Motor Size for Sailboats

It seems so complex to pick the right engine size for your sailboat. I was done with complex calculations and tried to make it easier here.

How to pick the right outboard motor size for your sailboat? To get the right amount of horsepower needed to efficiently propel a sailboat, divide the displacement of the boat (in lb) by 550. You need approximately 1 HP per 550 lb of displacement or 4 HP per 2200 lb. Most sailboats don't need a motor with more than 30 HP.

In this article, I'm talking about small outboard engines for sailboats. We're talking about displacement hulls here, so in other words: keel boats. They need more power than flat bottoms.

But they're not powerboats - so it's not our mission to go fast. It's our mission to get decent speed, good control over the boat, and the best possible fuel efficiency. Without breaking the bank of course.

Sunset in calm waters from a boat with small outboard motor

If you're serious about getting a new engine, I definitely recommend to get advice from an expert . But you know, salespeople always recommend the Turbo version. Remember that you don't have to overpower a sailboat. Usually you don't need anything over 30 HP. So at least you now know what will work on average.

What is hull displacement?

Hull displacement is the weight of the boat, or the amount of water the boat displaces.
Maximum hull displacement is the weight of the boat when it's fully loaded, including crew.

The weight of the boat is the same as its displacement, because the weight of any object is exactly equal to the weight of the water it displaces (aka: pushes aside). This is called Archimedes Principle.

The weight slightly differs in saltwater from freshwater, because saltwater is heavier. In saltwater, the boat gets a bit lighter. So in theory you can use a smaller engine for a bluewater boat, but in practice this is offset by the stronger current and wind.

How to find the displacement of your boat?

Most manufacturers simply give you the displacement of your boat. If you can't find any data, because, for example, you own an old boat, you can weigh your boat on a truck scale. You can also haul it out and measure it (which is painstaking work).**

Tip: if you're gonna weigh your boat, simply drive it onto a truck scale, and retract the weight of the trailer from the total weight.

Of course, it's not so simple. This formula gives a rough estimate. But for me this was way clearer than all that black magic that I get when I ask people what size engine I should get.

Let's look at the things this formula doesn't take into account.

2-strokes are more powerful than 4-strokes. Two-stroke engines fire once every revolution and four-strokes fire once every other revolution. This makes the 2-stroke twice as powerful. They provide more torque at a higher RPM. But they also wear more quickly. The 4-stroke will last you a lot longer, and its also more fuel efficient.

The right propellor size is just as important as having enough horsepower. With a smaller prop diameter, it has to work harder to generate the same propulsion as a larger diameter. But you can't just go larger always. The prop affects the RPM of your engine, and you have to get in the right range (more on this later). You also have to check the maximum diameter that fits your boat.

Diesels have more torque, because the compression rate is higher than that of gasoline engines. So if you consider a diesel, you can do with less HPs.

High windage hulls (multihulls) need a bit more. A multihull (or larger hull in general) suffers from more friction because of the larger surface. So the engine needs to work a little harder.

If you sail longer distances under power , or against the wind it's a good idea to get a larger engine (but not too large). This helps you to save on fuel since you have lower RPM. Especially if you sail offshore or on open sea. The engine needs to work harder due to stronger wind and current.

If you're just sailing in and out of the marina under power, you may need less HP.

Smooth hull designs need less HPs than bulky hull designs, like the classic wooden clippers and crabbers for example.

It matters to get the right size outboard motor for a couple of reasons.

First of all: smaller engines are cheaper, so you save money on buying the engine.

Secondly: smaller engines use a lot less fuel, so you save money on using the engine.

Thirdly: smaller engines are cheaper to maintain: so you save money on maintenance.

So why not get the smallest engine and get the best fuel economy? There are a couple of advantages to getting a (slightly) bigger engine:

More power means more control (easier to stop the boat, in case you need to)
Finding the sweet spot might actually reduce fuel consumption

The sweet spot

To perform optimally, an engine should get up to speed. The problem with an overpowered boat is that the engine won't rev up to 80 - 90% of the RPM. This kills fuel efficiency and also the cooling system won't operate optimally.

The optimal cruising RPM of the engine is about 85-95% of the maximal RPM
You should reach cruising RPM at hull speed, so your engine should be at about 90% RPM

The propeller size is very important for the RPM. If your prop diameter is too wide, the engine can't get up to speed and struggles to build power. Bad for fuel economy, bad for the engine, and bad for performance.

On the other hand, if your prop is too small, you don't make use of the engine's full power.

If you struggle to get to high RPM, your prop is too large. If your engine is constantly in the red, you're underpropped.

So don't go too big on the prop, but also don't go too small. The easiest way to get it right is to check the engines manual and see what the manufacturer recommends.

You can definitely go too big on a sailboats engine. An overpowered yacht doesn't make any sense. True, it can look cool, but it can't feel cool. Every displacement hull has a maximum hull speed. That means that it cannot go any faster than the max speed. So if your engine can cruise at that speed, it's not getting any better.

The problem with displacement hulls is that they displace the water, or in other words: they push the water in front of them. They cannot move any faster than they can push away the water. And because the resistance increases as speed increases, there's an absolute, physical speed limit for each keelboat.

That's why powerboats have to get out of the water to reach top speed.

Fun fact: the longer your boat, the higher the hull speed. Want to know the maximum hull speed for your boat? You can find it in this article .

So, you can't go faster than your maximum hull speed, so a 50+HP engine is kind of ridiculous. Bear in mind that a large engine also has the following disadvantages:

First of all: larger engines are more expensive, so you spend more money when buying the engine.

Secondly: larger engines use a lot more fuel, so you spend more money when using the engine.

Thirdly: larger engines are more expensive to maintain: so you spend more money on maintenance.

Also, if your engine is too big, it doesn't reach the optimal cruising RPM, so your fuel economy also gets really bad FAST.

I suggest getting the smallest possible engine that gets you to maximum hull speed while it's at roughly 90% of the RPM. As long as it gives you enough control and good handling, it will get you there. If you give up on going fast, you can actually get really good fuel economy and your engine will last you probably 20 years.

If you want to go fast, a sailboat is not the right one for you. You should instead get a powerboat.

I'm just kidding. Read my 13 Reasons Why Sailing is Better Than Powerboating here .

Do sailboats have motors? Most sailboats are power assisted boats, which means they have a small auxiliary engine to cruise in light air. When a sailboat is sailing under engine power, it is considered a motorboat and it doesn't have right of way.

Thanks for answering my questions.

Taylor Bishop

Thanks for explaining how you can figure out what size you need for an outboard motor. You mentioned that you should find the displacement by weigh a boat on a truck scale. I’m interesting to learn if you need to regularly weigh it in case the hull displacement could change or if it will always be consistent.

Shawn Buckles

Hi MitI, you’re welcome, my pleasure.

Hi Taylor, my pleasure.

You don’t need to weigh your boat regularly, as the hull displacement will stay consistent. You could literally see the hull displacement as the amount of space your hull takes up in the water. So as long as you don’t make any major changes to the hull shape or ballast of your boat, you should see no differences in displacement.

Roger S Johnson

How do you measure for shaft size, most outboard motors are for flat bottom and say measure to the bottom of the boat, most sailboats tapper to the aft. Where do you measure for a tapered bottom sail boat?

Will a 5 horse Honda 4 stroke be ok for a 25 foot Pearson Commander sail boat. Thanks for your time Luke

I think it would be Luke.

Great post, thanks for the info. A naive question from a soon-to-be sailor: I’m considering buying a 28 ft sailboat, with 2500 kg (ca. 5500 lbs) displacement. The engine is in pretty good condition, but is old and the original one (from 1977!), so I am also thinking of an alternative scenario in which it fails. I know that in my area replacing an inboard engine will cost double the price I’m putting down for the boat, and since I’m on a budget, that simply won’t be an option and outboards seem to be cheaper. So the question is: is it possible to put an outboard engine on all boats? Is there some factor that would make it impossible to mount an outboard engine on the boat? Thanks!

Garth Powelson

What is minimum length that a sailboat can go without an outboard. Does a 29’ “require by law” to have engine?

Hello Mr. Buckles, Thanks for the informative article. I’m looking to get the smallest possible outboard for my 1.5 ton displacement fiberglass monohull Hood 23’ sloop. Can I get away with a 4HP?!? What size prop would I need?!? (I’m only going to use it when there is NO wind, and, if I can stay 4HP or below, I am not required to register my vessel—which is pretty cool, so here’s hoping!)

Thanks again, Ship

Hi, I’ve got a older Pearson 39’ . I’m looking to remove the old 40 ho westerbeke and go electric. Unsure of what hp is going to be needed?

emilio h javier

i am purchasing a catalina 22 ft. i have in mind a 4 HP motor. what would be the length of the shaft.

I am considering buying a 25 ft sailboat with a 7200 lb displacement. The boats top speed is listed at 7knots per hour but the diesel motor does not work. The owner has a 9.9hp outboard that can be purchased with the boat. Is 9.9hp enough to power the boat to at least 5 to 6 knots per hour? Thanks. Rick

What weight outboard would be too much for a 20’ Santana, displacement 1,350 lbs? I don’t want too much weight at the back. I want the boat to be seaworthy.

I have not seen this amount of BS in years :) I’m not a marine engineer, yet physicist & avation engineer. You even can’t tell the difference between mass of the vessel and diplacement :D Fcking genius.

You may also like, what’s the life expectancy of a marine diesel engine.

Being a fan of the waters, I found the life expectancy of marine diesel engines an interesting topic to deeply research. I went on and on and I couldn’t stop …

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The Best Outboard Motor for a Sailboat

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

The technology of sailing has remained mostly unchanged for centuries. Since learning to harness the power of wind, sailors have been transiting the world’s oceans, expanding trade routes and exploring new cultures. Although nothing more than a renewable natural resource and a single sail is needed to move a sailboat along the water, there are times when it’s important (and in our modern age, convenient) to leverage off a motor to get you where you need to go.

Like any unique piece of equipment in the world of sailing, outboard motors come in a variety of sizes with features and options to fit any owner’s needs. But of course, one size doesn’t fit all. Every boat is different – even those that come off the production line at the same time – and every owner is looking for something specific when it comes to their sailboat. From the purpose of owning the boat (blue water sailing vs. racing) to the location and impact on maintenance (cold weather vs. tropical weather), an outboard motor is just one of the many elements that will define a sailboat’s function and performance.

Whether you’re a new owner, or a veteran sailor, it’s important to know the basic components of any outboard motor . You should also have an idea of what you want your outboard motor to do for your size and model sailboat.

Table of contents

Outboard Motor Size

A larger boat doesn’t necessarily mean a larger motor. Although there are different ratings for different classes of boats, a small power plant can be more effective than a larger one. Conversely, an outboard motor can easily overpower a small boat and create unsafe conditions at high speeds. Guidelines and requirements differ between motorboats and sailboats. And while there is some overlap, these considerations apply directly to sailboats.

Engine power has to do with how much water a boat displaces. For sailboats, smaller is better. If you’re a bit of a math geek, the exact formula is 4 horsepower for every 2200lb of weight. Coupled with a propeller size, which can be determined using a propeller calculator , you’ll get a rough estimate to use as a guideline to start shopping. This is a good first step, since size is essentially a fixed variable. Though it’s worth noting for those who are buying a sailboat directly from the manufacturer, that actual weight will increase after delivery – once all other rigging and outfitting has been completed.

Physical size of your outboard motor is an important consideration and is directly related to the design of your sailboat. An outboard motor is made up of three parts from top to bottom:

The Powerhead – Houses the engine. The bulbous part of the motor.
The Midsection – Houses the exhaust system. Varies in length and design.
The Lower Unit – Propellers attach to the gearbox. Submerged when operational.

Shaft length is an important design element and should be considered when purchasing a motor. A shaft that is too short will obviously prevent the propeller from being submerged in water, while a shaft that is too long will extend the propellers too far. Not only will it decrease the efficiency of your engine, it will create unnecessary drag. Know your transom length when looking at different models.

When an outboard motor is not being used, it should be stowed in its upright position. Some of the larger motors have an automated switch that will raise it out of the water, but some must be secured manually. Make sure everyone who sails with you is capable of lifting and securing the motor out of the water in case of an emergency.

Outboard Motor Power

Any kind of motor installed on a sailboat (inboard or outboard) should be viewed as a tool to help with maneuvering. Although there are some very skilled sailors out there who can sail into their slip without the aid of a motor, many harbors have restrictions that either don’t allow for the use of full sails, or there simply isn’t enough room to maneuver. A motor with both forward and reverse gears helps tremendously with docking.

While there is no exact correlation between boat length and total weight, the following is a rough guideline:

1-4 HP for boats up to 20’ (approximately 1000-2000lbs)
4-18 HP for boats between 20-30’ (approximately 2,000-10,000lbs)
18-34 HP for boats between 30-40’ (10,000lbs or more)

There are some things to consider when deciding how much horsepower you need or want. Location and the type of conditions you expect you’ll be sailing in is one of the biggest factors. Heavy seas and high winds typically associated with open ocean sailing will put more strain on your engine, and in some cases overpower it, whereas an engine that is heavier than needed will add unnecessary weight when racing. If you plan on motoring for long distances, consider purchasing an engine that will stand up to a lot of use.

Less HP is required for:

Boat Design – Single hull boats made out of fiberglass require less power.
2-Stroke Engines – This is due to an overall lighter weight engine and higher torque.
Diesel Engines – Diesel delivers more torque because the rate of compression is greater.
Bigger Propellers – More surface area means more water displacement.
Location – Motoring on lakes and rivers requires less power than open ocean.
Distance – A smaller engine is suitable for shorter distances.

More HP is required for:

Boat Design – Catamarans and heavier boats (regardless of size) require more power.
4-Stroke Engine – Engine weight and an extra step of compression yields less power.
Gas Engines – The rate of compression for gas engines is much lower than diesel.
Smaller Propeller – A smaller propeller displaces less water.
Location – Open ocean, with tides and currents, will strain a smaller engine.
Distance – Cover more distance when wind conditions are poor requires a larger engine.

Outboard Motor Cost

There is no way to quantify how much you will pay for any given motor. But there are several costs associated with owning an outboard motor that are definitely worth considering when making your purchase.

Certainly, a lager, more-powerful engine is going to be costlier than a smaller engine with lower horsepower. But as mentioned earlier, size is not necessarily a guarantee of performance and efficiency. At the same time, there’s only so much you can get out of an engine before you exceed its capability. Larger engines tend to help with resale value should you choose to sell your boat at some point, but a boat outfitted with right motor to begin with will always perform better than a motor that’s large just for the sake of it.

Factor in maintenance costs and fuel when looking at models. You want to run your engine at around 90% of its max RPMs to balance proper fuel usage and with wear and tear. Making a few calls to marine mechanics to inquire about an engine you’re interested in will give you a lot of information a sales person won’t be able to give you. The good news about outboard motors is that most of them are portable, which means you won’t have the added cost of either paying a mechanic to come to you, or having to get your boat to the yard, which usually requires help from a very good friend willing to spend all day driving and sailing back and forth.

Owning a boat requires constant care and maintenance, so a little knowledge goes a long way. While an outboard motor is not required for sailing, it’s a convenient addition that can greatly increase your enjoyment out on the water. Being patient and spending time researching engines will not only help you make the correct purchase but will help you take advantage of a great deal when it presents itself. Whether you sail the Caribbean, or race off the coast of California in a catamaran, there is an outboard motor that’s just right for you.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Average Boat MPG (How Far Can You Go?)

As a boat owner, the one thing that I am always cautious and concerned about is fuel efficiency. I always try to work out on average the amount of fuel my boat will need for most trips that I do. One thing to note is that the average boat MPG varies by size and type of vessel. However, no matter what kind of boat you own, there is a standardized range for you to work with.

So what is the average boat MPG? An average boat MPG or gallons per hour is around 1-4 gallons per mile at an average of 20knots.

keep in mind that there are hundreds if not thousands of boat brands, dozens of boat engine sizes and brands, and types (jet, outboard, inboard, and I/O)(2-Stroke and 4-Stroke). There is also fuel type, gas or diesel. Fuel consumption is hard to understand because it will vary a lot from boat to boat.

Smaller boats use less fuel, even going at hire speed. Powerboats, depending on speed and model, use more fuel at higher knots. The key to understanding your boat’s MPG is to calculate the speed at which the t boat is traveling and the amount of gallon required for the journey.

For example, if a boat moving 20 nautical miles per hour and burns 10 gallons of fuel per hour, the MPG for the boat would be 2 miles per gallon. It is an easy and straightforward trick to calculate your boat’s MPG. Once you are acquainted with your boat’s fuel system, understanding its fuel efficiency and consumption will become more natural to you. These averages are only guided estimates as different factors must be considered to determine the MPG of your boat.

MPG of boats is probably one of the most important factors for many boat owners. Fuel prices often dictate what kind of boat you can afford or how far out you are boating this weekend. This is why it is essential to understand how your boat works and everything that factors in when it comes to MPG like the engines, weight, fuel type, hull, and a plethora of other factors that it may sometimes become complicated in understanding your boats MPG. But rest assured, the most problematic concerns of understanding a boat’s MPG will be revealed next in subsequent paragraphs.

Fuel Consumption of Boats

Here is a very simple way to look at it. The easier the boat can move through the water, the less energy it will take to propel the boat forward. This, therefore, will decrease the rate of fuel consumed by the boat. Some of the Factors affecting fuel consumption of boats are listed below.

Size – Usually, the bigger your boat is, the heavier it is as well. More effort is required to move a bigger boat rather than a smaller one. The engine will be working harder to push the boat. In some instances, multiple engines are needed. All this translates into more fuel consumption.
Weight – just like the size, the heavier your boat is, the more the engine has to work to push the boat forward, burning more fuel in the process.
Hull Shape – the shape of the hull also plays a significant factor when talking about MPG. Boats with V hulls will enjoy better fuel consumption than more square-shaped boats.
Type Of Fuel – to maximize MPG follow the manufacturers’ recommendation on fuel octane. Traying to save a few bucks by filling up with cheaper fuel might end up costing you more in the long run.
Maintenance – To ensure the best possible MPG on your boat, keep up with the maintenance of the engine. Pore service or neglected engines tend to burn more fuel than a well-maintained engine.
Whether – mother nature also plays a big factor in MPG. Check the weather and prepare accordingly. If you are boating against the wind or on big waters, you are definitely going to burn more fuel than on a calm day with glass looking water.
Engine – is your engine in good shape? Does your boat have the proper size engine? All of this can affect MPG.
Trim – a boat trimmed too much or not enough will be less efficient and burn more fuel than a properly trimmed boat.

Choosing The Right Fuel Efficient Boat

A lot of people will tell you that if you can’t afford the fuel, you shouldn’t buy a boat. This is true to some extent but not all the time. If your fuel budget is tight, you can still own a boat. You just need to find the right boat that will serve your purpose while not draining your budget.

This means that you might have to settle for a dual-engine set up instead of a quad engine set up. Take into consideration the type of activities you want to do on your boat. There are thousands of boats on the market out there to choose from. Knowing what you want and what you are really going to use the boat for will help you chose the right boat. Talo to other boat enthusiast certified boat mechanics or get on the boating forums online and ask questions about the boat that interest you. Chances are, you’ll be able to talk to someone that owns the same boat and can tell you how good or bad MPG is on that particular boat.

Why You May Not Want A Faster Boat

You should get the boat that makes you happy and can accommodate your necessities. A lot of times people search for speed boats because they are fast and look cool. You need to determine what is more important for you, a fast boat, or a more practical boat.

Speed boats are designed to go fast. This boat is definitely not designed to save fuel or be comfortable rides. Depending on what you do with your boat will determine the difference between speed and reliability for you. Simply put, you may need space for your gear, food, supplies for the day, and guests, and a faster boat may hinder you from the space that you would need and burn more fuel in the process.

Does MPG Really Matter?

It all depends on the perspective that you take. In most cases, MPG does matter. It is the measurement of how many miles you can travel on your boat with the amount of fuel in the tank. It is essential for many reasons. People want to get accurate and scientific-based calculations to help plan their weekends and activities. If standard measurements like MPG was not available, we wouldn’t be able to compare and interpret fuel efficiency and consumption. MPG or miles per gallon is a standard measurement that is used to determine boat fuel efficiency and its consumption. This better enables you to make accurate judgments when determining if you can make it from point A to Point B without stopping on the fuel pump first. It also helps you to know when your boat is not performing to a standard that it should, based on previous experiences. Having all these data make you more knowledgeable about your boat fuel patterns.

How To Improve my Boat’s Fuel Efficiency?

Taking care of a boat could be a challenging thing. If you are not an experienced or licensed boat mechanic, it is always recommending that you go to one first. This is to ensure that the boat can get the required professional service it truly needs.

Aside from professional assistance, there are ways that you can improve the fuel efficiency of your boat. Elimination of weight can better improve boat fuel efficiency. The heavier the boat is, the more energy will be required for the engine to produce, thus increasing fuel consumption. Try to get rid of anything that will cause additional weight on the boat, and that is not needed. Try to avoid chemicals that claim to boost your boat’s engine. It may cause havoc on the internal engine system and may create fuel problems. Older boats are very susceptible to these changes and may destroy their engines.

Try and seek professional advice on your boat before deciding to add fuel boosters, as not all boasters negatively impact a boat’s fuel efficiency. Try to not leave the engine on for long periods of time if not moving. Leaving the engine unnecessarily can burn the motor out and also increase unnecessary fuel consumption. Servicing your boat engine is an important step to help with fuel efficiency. The engine is the main component of your boat. Without it, your boat is basically useless. Regularly servicing on the engine can highlight problems and have them taken care of immediately. The last thing you want to know is that your engine fails you at sea.

Are Boats More Fuel Efficient Than Cars?

This varies by various circumstances. Boats that carry goods, products, and passengers may be more fuel-efficient than busses or taxis. Boats are known to take a more significant number of people and products than cars. From the perspective of fuel consumption, boats consumed more fuel than most cars. Cars today are being more fuel-efficient, which makes them very competitive over boats. Boats, despite efforts, continue to lag in this respect. However, a bigger boat is usually more efficient than a smaller boat depending on the circumstances. Smaller boats carry fewer things and are sometimes more fuel-efficient than smaller cars. The circumstances vary by how cars would be more fuel-efficient than boats. A detailed comparison can be made to compare both subjects to different elements to have a clear understanding of which one has an advantage over the other.

Alejandro Cruz

I’m part of a family of "aquaholics" We love everything about the boating lifestyle. From fishing to exploring new waters to everything in between. We love going on new adventures as well as just chilling in the water. In this website, we want to share with you everything we have and continue to learn about the boating life 365!!

Average Boat Mileages: With 50 Examples of Different Boat Models

One of the most important things to know about a boat is its mileage. Of course, the mpg (miles per gallon) of a boat can differ drastically and depends on many factors. In this article, we will walk you through how many miles per gallon a boat gets in general by looking at the mileages of popular boat models.

On average, a standard boat gets around 3 mpg (miles per gallon) at MAX RPMs. However, the mileage can vary from as small as 0.5 mpg or less to as high as 8 mpg or more depending on the weather condition, boat’s weight, boat’s condition, RPMs, and most importantly, the boat’s engine type, etc.

Boats are not as fuel-efficient as cars. They consume a lot of gas compared to other vehicles due to their traversing in the waters. That’s the main reason why boats have bigger fuel tanks compared to other land-moving vehicles. Low mileage means requires more fuel.

Many small boats tend to get around 3 – 12 mpg at normal speeds (not at max RPMs), while faster boats like speed and motorboats will give 0.5 – 2.5 mpg. Depending on the boat’s weight, design, and, very importantly, the type of motor it has, the mpg or mileage changes drastically.

NOTE – All the mileages listed in the post are at max RPMs , not at cruising or normal speeds. And those values are based on the tests conducted by Yamaha and Mercury outboard companies, and some others are taken from outside.

An older boat with an older engine will have poor fuel mileage when compared to more modern boats. Here’s a table showing the different boat models and their average mileages.

Those are the average mileages of different boat models. OKAY, without further ado, let’s see the mpg of those different boats in a detailed way.

Related post – How Many Gallons Of Gas Does A Boat Hold? Check this article to know the average fuel tank sizes of 60 different boats.

How Many Miles Per Gallon Does A Pontoon Boat Get?

On average, a pontoon boat gets around 3.5 mpg (miles per gallon) at MAX RPMs. However, the mileage can vary from as small as 1.5 mpg or less to as high as 7 mpg or more depending on the weather condition, boat’s weight, boat’s condition, RPMs, and most importantly, the boat’s engine type, etc.

The average pontoon boat will get around 5 miles per gallon at normal speed (not max RPMs). This means that a 30 miles trip out on the water will take 6 gallons of gas.

Since pontoon boats are not deemed for racing or speed, many boats will achieve good mileage. Here’s a table showing the different pontoon boat models and their average mileages.

Pontoon boats are very popular among the boats. Their simple construction of the deck on two or three pontoon tubes makes it a very special boat. Two pontoons for most of the boats, but three pontoons go under the deck if the boat becomes larger and heavier.

Common pontoon boat designs are a catamaran with two hulls or a trimaran with three hulls. Boats with three hulls are sometimes called tri-toons. Pontoon boats are used for pleasure on lakes and rivers, and in some cases, on oceans close to shore.

Related post – What Fuel Do Boats Use? Check this article to know the types of fuels used in boats and their advantages & drawbacks in a detailed way.

How Many Miles Per Gallon Does A Bass Boat Get?

On average, a bass boat gets around 4 mpg (miles per gallon) at MAX RPMs. However, the mileage can vary from as small as 5 mpg or less to as high as 7 mpg or more depending on the weather condition, boat’s weight, boat’s condition, RPMs, and most importantly, the boat’s engine type, etc.

A bass boat is a small boat that is designed and equipped primarily for bass fishing or fishing for other panfish , usually in freshwaters such as lakes, rivers, and streams. Unlike some other boats, the bass boat promised a focus on fishing and nothing more.

Most of the bass boats are very light boats, and their simple construction gives more mileage than other boats. However, an average bass boat will consume between 4 – 5 gallons per hour at cruising speed.

Each angler is going to have their own preferences and desires for their bass boat. So let’s get into it. Listed here, we have some of the best bass boat models on the market, so let’s see how they compare when stacked up.

Bass boats are usually propelled by two means: an outboard motor, which moves the boat swiftly from place to place, and a trolling motor, which moves the boat at a slow pace through an area where the angler is fishing, giving more mileage.

Bass boats typically feature aerated livewells, a flat deck, and a powerful outboard engine. The whole idea of this boat is to allow for the best possible fishing experience. The deck is completely flat, and the form of the boat is very low to the water. This allows for great control of the boat in high wind situations and in shallow waters (which is the ideal place for fishers). Outdoor Troop

How Many Miles Per Gallon Does A Cabin Cruiser Boat Get?

On average, a cabin cruiser boat gets around 1 mpg (miles per gallon) at MAX RPMs. However, the mileage can vary from as small as 0.5 mpg or less to as high as 2 mpg or more depending on the weather condition, boat’s weight, boat’s condition, RPMs, and most importantly, the boat’s engine type, etc.

Cabin cruiser boats are just like mobile mini homes that you can use to take the entire family on adventures. Even with small cabin cruisers, you have the flexibility to visit new ports, spend long weekends enjoying the boating lifestyle, or just kick back for a day of swimming and relaxing on the water.

Being bigger in size than most boats (and weighing more) gives less mileage. This makes cabin cruisers one of the least fuel-efficient boats used by most recreational boaters. However, proper maintenance and careful cruising can help improve the boat’s gas efficiency.

So cabin cruiser boats give less mpg compared to pontoon boats, bass boats, cuddy cabins, fishing boats, etc. Here’s a table showing the different cabin cruiser boat models and their average mileages.

A cabin cruiser becomes a small yacht if the size increases furthermore, accumulating more space on board. A cabin cruiser also has an area behind the cockpit that is open to the outdoors. This makes a great area for resting in the sun or for fishing, crabbing, and more.

A cabin cruiser will generally range anywhere from $100,000.00 to $500,000.00. Below $100,000, and you’re probably looking at a cuddy cabin and above $500,000.00, and you’re probably looking at a yacht or trawler. Go Downsize

How Many Miles Per Gallon Does A Cuddy Cabin Boat Get?

On average, a cuddy cabin boat gets around 2.5 mpg (miles per gallon) at MAX RPMs. However, the mileage can vary from as small as 1 mpg or less to as high as 4 mpg or more depending on the weather condition, boat’s weight, boat’s condition, RPMs, and most importantly, the boat’s engine type, etc.

Cuddy cabin boats offer day cruisers an interior space to sleep at night. These boats are often built like bowrider boats in the center and rear of the boat, but the front holds a cabin rather than a sitting area.

In fact, the average size of a cuddy cabin is between 18 and 28 feet long. Anything larger, and you’re probably dealing with a cabin cruiser rather than a cuddy cabin. Here’s a table showing the different cuddy cabin boat models and their average mileages.

Cuddy cabin boats need a lot of fuel depending on the size and the usage. If you are cruising all day and want to sleep overnight, at least a 100-gallon tank is a must. Anything lower than that means you are at risk and should use the fuel accordingly.

Related post – Is Boat Fuel Expensive? Check this article to know more about the cost of the fuel that is used in boats and how they distinguish from normal gas station prices.

How Many Miles Per Gallon Does A Fishing Boat Get?

On average, a fishing boat gets around 2 mpg (miles per gallon) at MAX RPMs. However, the mileage can vary from as small as 1 mpg or less to as high as 4 mpg or more depending on the weather condition, boat’s weight, boat’s condition, RPMs, and most importantly, the boat’s engine type, etc.

Now we are talking about the offshore fishing vessels (like center consoles, etc.), not the small fishing boats like (Bass boats, Jon boats, etc.). Offshore imply harsh weather (choppy waters), which drastically increases fuel consumption and decreases mileage drastically.

Generally, offshore fishing boats have at least one live baitwell, tackle centers, bait prep centers, fish boxes for safely storing the day’s catch, and rod holders for storage and strategically placed for trolling—higher gunwales to keep passengers safely on board. Most will have extensive electronics for fish finding, navigation, marking hot spots, and monitoring systems, including propulsion systems. MarineMax

Offshore fishing boats are designed to safely endure the severity of the open ocean while providing a platform for searching out larger fish. Here’s a table showing the different fishing boat models and their average mileages.

Related Post – Do Boat Use The Same Gas As Car? Check this article to know the difference between the boat and car gasoline in a detailed way.

Key Takeaways

A standard boat gets around 3 mpg (miles per gallon) at MAX RPMs on average. However, the mileage can vary from as small as 0.5 mpg or less to as high as 8 mpg or more depending on the weather condition, boat’s weight, boat’s condition, RPMs, and most importantly, the boat’s engine type, etc.

My name is Mahidhar, and I am passionate about boating. Every day I learn some new things about boats and share them here on the site.

What Is Considered Good Fuel Economy for a Boat?

Unlike cars, it’s often hard to establish a standard boat fuel economy rating because there are so many different factors that can impact the real-world fuel economy of a boat. However, in general, smaller boats with smaller engines tend to have better fuel economy, though this is not always the case. Here’s a look at the types of fuel economy numbers to expect on larger vs. smaller boats.

What factors impact the fuel economy of a boat?

Determining the fuel economy of a boat is not a completely straightforward process as there are a ton of factors that impact the fuel economy of every individual boat. However, according to Go Downsize , the biggest factor that affects every boat is the engine that powers it . In addition, the length of the boat, the amount of weight on the boat, and the overall size of the boat significantly impact its fuel economy.

Another key factor that affects fuel economy is how fast the boat is being driven. Of course, this is a factor that is more controllable than some of the others. Ultimately, the faster the boat is driven, the worse its fuel economy will be as it burns through fuel at a faster rate.

While speed is a factor that is within the driver’s control, one factor that isn’t is the weather and water conditions. For example, having to drive against the wind will no doubt decrease gas mileage.

A final important note when it comes to factors that impact the fuel economy of a boat is that the overall condition of the boat will likely contribute to poor fuel economy. If a boat is not properly maintained, its gas mileage will undoubtedly suffer.

How is fuel economy impacted by the size of the boat?

In most scenarios, the size of the motor and the size of the boat go hand-in-hand. This means that just as the motor of the boat is a main factor in determining fuel efficiency, so is the overall size of the boat. Go Downsize also reports that many small watercraft boats can be expected to use three to eight gallons of gas per hour at cruising speed. In contrast, larger speed and motorboats can use anywhere from 20 to 30 gallons an hour.

When it comes to achieving a good fuel economy, what type of fuel is being pumped into a boat is also a crucial element to take into consideration. According to Sportsman , the best bet when it comes to fueling a boat is to always use whichever fuel is specifically recommended by the manufacturer of the motor.

Another important note is that boats should never be utilizing any type of fuel that contain more than 10% ethanol, like E15 or E85 fuels. Given the fact that boat motors are not designed to handle the corrosiveness of high levels of ethanol, pumping these types of fuels into a boat can significantly diminish the longevity of the motor while also worsening the fuel effiecncy.

In addition, ethanol is an attractant of water which means using this type of fuel can end up flushing water into the fuel system, which can also have devastating consequences for the longevity of the boat and motor.

Average gas mileage expectations on larger vs. smaller boats

According to Boating World , a typical-sized boat gets about four to five mpg on average. However, the motor type will always factor into a boat’s fuel efficiency. Some motors can get up to 10 mpg or more. Plus, diesel-powered motors tend to have a much more efficient fuel economy and can easily get up to 20 mpg.

It would be easy to assume that a smaller boat will always have a better fuel economy compared to a larger boat. However, this is not always the case. The fuel economy will largely be impacted by the motor-to-weight ratio.

So, if a smaller vessel is only using one motor that isn’t necessarily bringing enough hp for the size of the boat, it will have a worse boat fuel economy compared to a larger vessel that has enough motors and hp to compensate for the weight of the boat.

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Danielle Gibson

Danielle Gibson began as a contributing writer for MotorBiscuit in 2020. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Education and her Master’s degree in History from the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

How Much Gas Do Boats Use? 5 Boat Types Explained

Many small, personal watercraft boats tend to use 3-8 gallons of gas per hour at cruising speeds, while faster boats like speed and motorboats can use 20-30 gallons an hour. Depending on the weight, size, and style of your boat, you will use within this very large range.

Instead of painstakingly trying to figure out your gas mileage, consider these five boats and their averages that we’ve listed below!

Table of Contents

What Impacts the Amount of Gas a Boat Will Use?

The amount of gas that a boat uses depends on a variety of factors.

The biggest factor that affects gas mileage is the motor a boat has. Knowing your motor or engine’s power is a must when it comes to your boat.

Other factors include:

Length of the boat
Amount of weight on board
How fast you drive
Weather and water conditions

In addition, the condition of a boat also impacts how much fuel it will burn. A poorly maintained engine will burn more fuel than one that is properly maintained. A boat in overall bad maintenance, in areas such as the hull or transom, will also contribute to poor gas mileage.

The way that you drive the boat also plays a large role in how much gas is burned by the engine. Every boat and engine will have its own unique ‘sweet spot’ where it burns fuel the most efficiently. For average-sized recreational boats, this speed is often slower than 20 knots.

How smoothly you steer and control your boat also plays a factor in fuel consumption. Other factors beyond your control include the weather conditions, how rough the water is, and adverse currents.

These will no doubt decrease gas mileage as you try to motor yourself against the wind and out of a storm.

Related Article: 13 Clever Ways to Get a Good Deal on (New) Boats

How Do you Save Gas and Money?

One of the most essential factors determining how much gas your boat will use is the motor. A motor should be properly maintained at least once per season by an expert. This will help save you money in the long run in fuel costs and mechanical issues.

The overall maintenance of a boat plays a large role in fuel efficiency. In order to save the most gas while boating, you should take good care of your boat and keep it clean, well maintained, and free of excess gear or heavy items.

The hull of the boat should be kept clean and free of any debris that could cause resistance. When a hull is dragging, your boat’s engine will burn more fuel. A clean, lightweight boat burns the least amount of fuel and is the most efficient.

Another way to save on gas costs while boating is to shop for your gas before you head to the marina. The gas at marina-side service is often overpriced due to convenience. Filling up your own gas can or container at a local service station before heading to the marina can help you save money on fuel costs.

Related Article: 9 Tips to Sell Your Boat Quickly (Without Dropping the Price)

Average Gas Used by 5 Different Boat Types:

While every boat will use a different amount of gas on average, boats of the same type will generally have similar fuel consumption rates. When you have very different boats, though, it is hard to tell what the “average” is.

We’ve listed a few common boats and their gas mileage expectations here:

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats are slower and feature a multi-hull design that makes them less fuel-efficient than boats that plane on the surface of the water. Because they have to push their pontoons through the water, the engines used on these boats must be powerful. Therefore, these boats are not very fuel-efficient and care should be taken to properly maintain them to retain optimal efficiency.

The average pontoon boat will consume around 5 gallons per hour at cruising speed. This means that a five hour trip out on the water will take 25 gallons of gas.

Related Article: Boat Fuel Types: What Fuel Type for My Boat? (Newbie Guide)

Bass boats are known for their sleek design and are mostly geared toward fishing. Modern bass boats include a smooth fiberglass hull design and powerful fuel-injected outboard engines. While these factors may help with controlling and steering a boat, the gas consumption of many bass boats still leaves much to be desired.

A good bass boat tends to spend most of its time trolling or idle while fishing, but getting from place to place can still eat up your gas. However, fuel consumption on a bass boat is better than a pontoon.

An average bass boat will consume between 4 – 5 gallons per hour at cruising speed. Bass boats reach optimal fuel efficiency when running the engine between 3,000 and 4,000 RPM.

Center Console Boats

Center console boats offer very little in the way of frills or seating. However, this does not make for improved gas consumption rates.

The length of a center console boat, as well as the engine choice, play a significant factor in determining the fuel consumption rate of a center console boat. With a hull length over 20 feet, some center console boats can average as much as 5 – 6 gallons per hour! But this will be at a speed of over 20 knots.

A well-maintained center console boat can average as low as 3 gallons per hour, with many averaging 4 gallons per hour in good conditions.

This is because their sleek design was made for getting from place to place quickly. You will be very happy with their gas consumption.

Related Article: How Long Do Sailboats Last?

Cabin Cruiser Boats

Cabin cruisers offer all the comforts of home out on the water, with many having room for a galley and modern comforts such as air conditioning. This makes the gas consumption of most cabin cruisers somewhat high, as the added weight to the boat requires a larger motor.

The cruising speed of a cabin cruiser has a large role in the amount of gas consumed. Not to mention the design and age of the boat. A lighter boat with a modern outboard motor will be more efficient than an older boat with an inboard engine.

A typical cabin cruiser can expect to get anywhere from 1 – 2 miles per gallon. This makes cabin-cruisers one of the least gas efficient boats used by most recreational boaters.

However, proper maintenance and careful cruising can help improve the boat’s gas efficiency.

Bowrider Boats

These boats are known for their ability to fit the entire family on board to have a good time. Bowrider boats feature plenty of space for seating and maneuvering around the boat. Therefore, the amount of passengers and partygoer equipment onboard plays a large factor in how much gas your bowrider boat will burn.

Bowrider boats can get expect to get an average of 3 miles per gallon of fuel.

However, this will vary wildly based on how much your boat weighs and how fast you cruise. The more people and the faster you go? The more fuel you burn.

A well-maintained bowrider with few passengers on a nice day may reach as much as 5 miles per gallon at the most efficient cruising speed.

Final Thoughts

The amount of fuel burned by a boat will vary depending on the age, condition, and maintenance level of the boat overall and its engine. A boat in overall poor condition will have poor fuel mileage.

An older boat, with an older engine, will also have poor fuel mileage when compared to more modern boats.

When looking to find the fuel mileage of your own boat, its possible to buy a fuel consumption gauge, but they can be expensive. It is much easier to just keep good records, and divide the amount of fuel burned by the distance traveled. You may want to make several trips with your boat to find the average of your fuel consumption. Take notes about your speed and other conditions, because these will affect your fuel efficiency.

Once you know how much fuel your boat is currently using, you can begin to adjust your cruising speed, trim, or other conditions, to improve your fuel efficiency.

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Boat Fuel Cost Calculator

How do you calculate fuel cost on a boat? To calculate fuel cost on a boat, you need to know the fuel consumption rate of your boat’s engine, the price of fuel per gallon, and the number of hours you plan to operate the boat. You can then use the formula: Fuel Cost = Fuel Consumption Rate (GPH) * Fuel Price per Gallon * Hours of Operation.

How much fuel does a 20-foot boat use? The fuel consumption of a 20-foot boat can vary based on the engine size and type, boat weight, and speed. On average, a 20-foot boat with a standard outboard engine might use around 6 to 12 gallons per hour (GPH).

How do you calculate gas mileage on a boat? To calculate gas mileage on a boat, divide the number of miles traveled by the number of gallons of fuel consumed. Gas Mileage (MPG) = Miles Traveled / Gallons of Fuel Consumed.

How much does a gallon of boat fuel cost? The cost of a gallon of boat fuel can vary depending on location, type of fuel, and current market prices. On average, boat fuel can cost between $3 to $5 per gallon or more.

What is the average mpg for a boat? Boats’ fuel efficiency can vary significantly depending on factors such as engine size, boat type, speed, and load. On average, boats might achieve fuel efficiency ranging from 2 to 8 miles per gallon (MPG).

How much gas does a 40 hp boat motor use? The fuel consumption of a 40 HP boat motor can vary based on the boat’s weight, speed, and load. On average, a 40 HP outboard might use around 4 to 6 gallons per hour (GPH).

What is the most fuel-efficient speed for a boat? The most fuel-efficient speed for a boat is usually around 8 to 12 knots (9 to 14 mph) for most planing hull boats.

How much fuel does a 225 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 225 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 15 to 20 gallons per hour (GPH).

How do you calculate fuel cost per mileage? To calculate fuel cost per mileage, divide the total fuel cost by the number of miles traveled. Fuel Cost per Mile = Total Fuel Cost / Miles Traveled.

How much fuel does a 200 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 200 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 12 to 18 gallons per hour (GPH).

How far can a boat go on a tank of gas? The distance a boat can go on a tank of gas depends on the fuel tank’s capacity and the boat’s fuel efficiency. For example, a boat with a 50-gallon tank and an average fuel efficiency of 4 MPG can go up to 200 miles on a full tank.

Is there an app to calculate fuel cost? Yes, there are various apps available that can help you calculate fuel cost for your boat trips. Some popular ones include “Boat Fuel Log,” “Fuel Logbook,” and “MyBoatPro – Fuel Log & Reminders.”

How much is 500 miles in gas? The cost of traveling 500 miles in gas depends on your boat’s fuel efficiency and the current price of fuel per gallon.

What is the formula for fuel usage? The formula for fuel usage is Fuel Usage (Gallons) = Fuel Consumption Rate (GPH) * Hours of Operation.

What is the best fuel for a boat? The best fuel for a boat depends on the engine’s requirements and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most boats use regular unleaded gasoline, while some larger vessels and certain high-performance boats may require premium fuel.

Why is marine fuel more expensive? Marine fuel can be more expensive than automotive fuel due to additional taxes and regulations imposed on marine fuel to address environmental and safety concerns.

How many hours does a gas boat engine last? Gas boat engines can last for thousands of hours if properly maintained. With regular servicing and care, they can last over a decade.

Is 350 hours on a boat a lot? 350 hours on a boat is generally considered relatively low. Well-maintained boats can last for many more hours.

Does going slower on a boat save gas? Yes, going slower on a boat can save gas and increase fuel efficiency as higher speeds require more power and fuel consumption.

Is 750 hours a lot for a boat? 750 hours on a boat is not excessively high, especially if the boat has been well-maintained. Modern marine engines are designed to last for thousands of hours.

How much gas does a 75 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 75 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 5 to 8 gallons per hour (GPH).

How much gas does a 50 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 50 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 3 to 6 gallons per hour (GPH).

Is it good to run gas out of an outboard motor? It is not recommended to run a gas outboard motor until it completely runs out of fuel, as this can lead to fuel system issues. It’s best to leave a small amount of fuel in the tank.

How fast is a 50 mph boat? A boat that can reach 50 mph can cover 50 miles in one hour if maintained at that speed.

Is 25 mph wind strong for boating? A wind speed of 25 mph can be considered strong for boating, and it can create choppy water and challenging conditions, especially on larger bodies of water.

How can I reduce my boat fuel consumption? You can reduce boat fuel consumption by maintaining your boat’s engine and hull, avoiding excessive speed, trimming properly, and using fuel-efficient boating practices.

How many miles per gallon does a Yamaha 200 outboard get? The fuel efficiency of a Yamaha 200 HP outboard can vary depending on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might get around 2 to 3 miles per gallon (MPG).

Should I run premium gas in my 4-stroke outboard? It is best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding fuel type for your 4-stroke outboard. Many modern outboards run well on regular unleaded gasoline.

How many miles per gallon does a Yamaha 150 outboard get? The fuel efficiency of a Yamaha 150 HP outboard can vary depending on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might get around 3 to 4 miles per gallon (MPG).

What will reduce fuel consumption? To reduce fuel consumption, maintain your boat’s engine and hull, use efficient boating practices, avoid excessive speed, and ensure proper engine tuning.

How can I calculate fuel efficiency? To calculate fuel efficiency, divide the number of miles traveled by the number of gallons of fuel consumed. Fuel Efficiency (MPG) = Miles Traveled / Gallons of Fuel Consumed.

How many gallons of gas per mile? The number of gallons of gas per mile depends on your boat’s fuel efficiency, which can be measured in miles per gallon (MPG).

How much fuel does a 350 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 350 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 25 to 30 gallons per hour (GPH).

What type of boat engine is most fuel-efficient? Diesel engines are generally more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines, but the choice of the most fuel-efficient engine type depends on the boat’s application and usage.

How much gas does a 300 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 300 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 20 to 25 gallons per hour (GPH).

Why should a boat’s gas tank never be completely filled? Boat gas tanks should not be completely filled to allow for fuel expansion due to temperature changes, preventing spills and damage to the fuel system.

Is it better to store a boat with a full tank of gas or empty? It is better to store a boat with a full tank of gas to reduce condensation and moisture buildup inside the tank, which can lead to fuel-related issues.

How long does it take to go 100 miles in a boat? The time it takes to go 100 miles in a boat depends on the boat’s speed. For example, at 20 mph, it would take 5 hours to travel 100 miles.

Can Waze calculate fuel cost? Waze can provide estimated travel times, but it does not directly calculate fuel costs.

Does Google Maps calculate fuel? Google Maps does not provide direct fuel cost calculations, but it can estimate travel times for a given route.

How does Google Maps get fuel prices? Google Maps gathers fuel price information from various sources, including user contributions and public fuel price databases.

How much will gas cost for a 1000-mile trip? The cost of gas for a 1000-mile trip depends on your boat’s fuel efficiency and the current price of fuel per gallon.

How many miles is 50 dollars of gas? The number of miles you can travel with 50 dollars of gas depends on your boat’s fuel efficiency and the current price of fuel per gallon.

How many miles is 5 gallons of gas? The number of miles you can travel with 5 gallons of gas depends on your boat’s fuel efficiency, which can be measured in miles per gallon (MPG).

What is the average fuel consumption? The average fuel consumption of a boat can vary widely based on factors such as boat type, engine size, speed, and load. Boats might achieve fuel efficiency ranging from 2 to 8 miles per gallon (MPG) on average.

Do I need to run premium gas in my boat? Most boats can run on regular unleaded gasoline unless the manufacturer specifically requires or recommends using premium fuel.

What grade of gas is best for a boat? For most boats, regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 is suitable, as long as it meets the engine manufacturer’s recommendations.

What is the most common marine fuel? The most common marine fuel is regular unleaded gasoline, followed by diesel fuel.

What is the most used marine fuel? Regular unleaded gasoline is the most commonly used marine fuel for recreational boats.

How long can a boat sit without running? A boat can sit for several weeks or even months without running, but it’s essential to properly maintain it during storage to prevent issues.

What is considered an old boat? The classification of an old boat can vary, but boats that are several decades old or more are often considered “old” in the boating community.

How many years should a boat last? With proper maintenance and care, a well-built boat can last for several decades or more.

How many hours does a typical boat engine last? Modern boat engines can last for thousands of hours with proper maintenance.

How many hours per year is normal for a boat? The number of hours a boat is used per year can vary widely depending on the owner’s usage and boating habits. It can range from a few hours for occasional boaters to hundreds of hours for avid boaters.

How many miles per gallon does a speed boat get? The fuel efficiency of a speed boat can vary significantly based on factors such as boat type, engine size, speed, and load. It might achieve fuel efficiency ranging from 1 to 5 miles per gallon (MPG) or more.

What is a good cruising speed for a boat? A good cruising speed for a boat is usually around 20 to 25 knots (23 to 29 mph) for most planing hull boats.

Is 200 hrs on a boat motor a lot? 200 hours on a boat motor is not excessively high and is generally considered relatively low usage.

Is 140 hours on a boat motor good? 140 hours on a boat motor is considered relatively low usage for a well-maintained engine.

How much gas does a 90 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 90 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 6 to 10 gallons per hour (GPH).

How many miles per gallon does a Mercury 150 outboard get? The fuel efficiency of a Mercury 150 HP outboard can vary depending on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might get around 3 to 4 miles per gallon (MPG).

How much fuel does a 75 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 75 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 5 to 8 gallons per hour (GPH).

How much gas does a 40 hp boat motor use? The fuel consumption of a 40 HP boat motor can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 4 to 6 gallons per hour (GPH).

Does going slower on a boat save gas? Yes, going slower on a boat can save gas and increase fuel efficiency, as higher speeds require more power and fuel consumption.

Should I run my outboard at full throttle? Running an outboard at full throttle for extended periods can increase fuel consumption and wear on the engine. It is advisable to vary the engine’s speed during operation.

How fast does a 200 hp boat go? The speed of a 200 HP boat depends on various factors such as boat type, hull design, weight, and load. It might reach speeds of 40 to 50 mph or more.

How fast does a 300 hp boat go? The speed of a 300 HP boat depends on factors such as boat type, hull design, weight, and load. It might reach speeds of 50 to 60 mph or more.

How windy is too windy for boating? The threshold for “too windy” for boating can vary based on factors such as boat size, experience, and the body of water. Generally, boating in winds exceeding 20 knots (about 23 mph) can become challenging and unsafe.

What wind speed makes choppy water? Choppy water can occur with winds around 15 knots (about 17 mph) or more, depending on the size of the body of water and the duration of the wind.

What is the best fuel for a boat? For most boats, regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 is suitable, as long as it meets the engine manufacturer’s recommendations.

How much gas does a 150 hp outboard use? The fuel consumption of a 150 HP outboard can vary based on the boat’s size, weight, speed, and load. On average, it might use around 10 to 15 gallons per hour (GPH).

Is 93 octane OK for boats? For most boats, 93 octane fuel is not necessary, and using regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 is suitable as long as it meets the engine manufacturer’s recommendations.

What is the best gas for a 4-stroke boat motor? Most 4-stroke boat motors run well on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87, as long as it meets the engine manufacturer’s recommendations.

Is there an app to calculate fuel cost for a boat trip? Yes, there are various apps available that can help you calculate fuel costs for your boat trips. Some popular ones include “Boat Fuel Log,” “Fuel Logbook,” and “MyBoatPro – Fuel Log & Reminders.”

With this comprehensive list of questions answered in bold text, you now have a wealth of information related to boat fuel cost, consumption, efficiency, and various factors that impact boating and fuel expenses.

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How Much Fuel Does an Outboard Use? [GPH Chart]

As a rule of thumb, the fuel consumption of most gas-powered outboard motors is somewhere between 0.3 and 55 gph at WOT. To be more precise, average gph figures within each class are as follows (at WOT):

0.5-20 HP (Portable) : 0.3-2 gph
25-100 HP (Midrange): 2.3-11 gph
115-600 HP (High-Performance): 12-55 gph

Note that factors such as weight, hull design, water conditions, propeller pitch, speed , etc. may affect consumption figures.

But in most cases, the gph figures of outboards with a given engine power fall into the same ballpark, regardless of their make or which boat they are propelling.

For your convenience, we at PowerSportsGuide have compiled these figures into one post!

How Much Fuel Does an Outboard Use?

General wisdom says that an outboard motor running at WOT uses 10% of its rated horsepower in gallons per hour (GPH). In other words, you can determine the fuel consumption of an outboard motor in WOT by dividing its horsepower by 10.

When boating at best cruise speed (typically 3500-4000 RPM) the fuel consumption drops to roughly 40-60% of the WOT fuel burn.

50 HP outboard : 50/10 = 5 gph at WOT / 2-3 gph at 3500-4000 RPM
100 HP outboard: 100/10 = 10 GPH at WOT / 4-6 gph at 3500-4000 RPM

This formula works surprisingly well on the majority of gas-powered outboard motors, regardless of their make or engine size.

But if you want to drill into the details and compare the mpg and gph figures of outboards by class, keep reading.

How Much Fuel Does a Portable Outboard Use?

Based on our research, the fuel consumption of portable outboard motors (2.5-20 HP) is around 0.3-2 gph at WOT.

The average fuel economy in this breed is as follows (at WOT):

2.5 HP: 0.3-0.35 gph
3.5 HP: 0.35-0.4 gph
5 HP: 0.4-0.5 gph
8 HP: 0.7-0.9 gph
9.9 HP: 0.9-1.1 gph
15 HP: 1.4-1.6 gph
20 HP: 1.6-2 gph

How Much Fuel Does a Midrange Outboard Use?

The fuel consumption of midrange outboard motors (25-100 HP) is somewhere between 2.3 and 11 gph at WOT:

25 HP: 2.3-2.5 gph
30 HP: 2.5-3 gph
40 HP: 3.5-4 gph
50 HP: 4.5-5 gph
60 HP: 5-6 gph
75 HP: 6-7.5 gph
90 HP: 7-10 gph
100 HP: 9.5-11 gph

Let’s get down to the gritty-gritty and talk about these motors in detail!

How Much Fuel Does a 25-30 HP Outboard Use?

The fuel consumption of 25-30 HP outboards can be anywhere from 2.3-3 gph at WOT and 1.1-1.5 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

These motors are typically powered by 500-750cc, inline-3 engines.

Rigged on a 14′ aluminum boat, a Honda BF30 produces the following test results:

Trolling speed: 0.1-1.5 gph at 800-900prm
Cruising speed: 1.4-1.5 gph at 3800-4000rpm
WOT: 2.7-2.8 gph at WOT/5600-5700rpm

How Much Fuel Does a 40 HP Outboard Use?

40 HP outboards enjoy 750-1000cc , inline-3 and 4 cylinder engines that burn 3.5-4 gph at full throttle and 1.5-2.5 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

As a reference, here are some factory test results from various manufacturers:

Bayliner M15 + Mercury F40: 3.8 gph/7.2 mpg (at WOT-27.2 mph) 1.8 gph/8.6 mpg (at 4000 RPM – 15.5 mph)
Crestliner 160 Sprint pontoon + Mercury F40: 3.5 gph/4.5 mpg (at WOT-15.7 mph) 2.1 gph/5 mpg (at 4000 RPM – 10.6 mph)
Grand 380 Gold Line (11’10” RIB) + Honda BF40: 3.8 gph/9.5 mpg (at WOT – 36 mph) 1.8 gph/13.9 mpg (at 4000rpm – 25 mph)
Blue Fin Wiking 4.5 + Yamaha F40F 3.33 gph at WOT 1.45 gph at best cruise speed (30 mph)

How Much Fuel Does a 50 HP Outboard Use?

The fuel consumption of 50 HP outboard motors is around 4.5 and 5 gph at WOT and they get around 2-2.5 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

Factory test results:

Crestliner 1600 Storm 16’ + Mercury F50: 4.4 gph/7.6 mpg (at WOT-33.5 mph) 2.5 gph/9.2 mpg (at 4000 RPM – 23.1 mph)
Crestliner 1760 Retriever Jon Deluxe 16.8’ + Mercury F50: 4.3 gph/6.9 mpg (at WOT-29.8 mph) 2.4 gph/9.2 mpg (at 4000 RPM – 22 mph)
Walker Bay Generation 400 (13’ RIB) + Honda BF50: 4.9 gph/6.2 mpg (at WOT-30.7 mph) 1.7 gph/10 mpg (at 4000rpm – 17 mph)
Triumph 170 CC (16’10” fiberglass) + Honda BF50: 4.9 gph (at WOT-32 mph) 2.1 gph/11.5 mpg (at 4000rpm – 24.8 mph)
Smoker Craft 160 Pro Angler (16’ alu) + Honda BF50: 4.4 gph at WOT and 1.6 gph at 4000rpm
Polar Kraft V165 SC Kodiak (16’4” alu) + Honda BF50 : 4.4 gph at WOT and 1.3 gph at 4000rpm
Alumacraft 16 MV Tex Special (16’ alu) + Honda BF50: 4.65 gph at WOT and 1.65 gph at 4000rpm

How many miles per gallon does a 50 HP outboard get?

50 HP outboards typically get 5.5-8 mpg at WOT and 8-13 mpg at 3500-4000 RPM.

How Much Fuel Does a 60 HP Outboard Use?

Based on our research, 60 HP outboards burn 5-6 gph at full throttle, which can be decreased to 2-3 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

Crestliner 180 Sprint 18.25’ pontoon + Mercury F60: 4.7 gph/7.7 mpg (at WOT-20.8 mph) 2.2 gph/6.6 mpg (at 4000 RPM – 14.5 mph)
War Eagle 761 Blackhawk (17’5”) + Honda BF60: 5.4 gph / 6.5 mpg (at WOT-6200rpm) 2 gph / 10.9 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Walker Bay Generation 450 (14’9”) RIB + Honda BF60: 5.4 gph / 6 mpg (at WOT-6155rpm) 2.1 gph / 10 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Starcraft Starfire 1600 SC (15’11”, alu) + Honda BF60: 5.4 gph / 7.1 mpg (at WOT-6000rpm) 2 gph / 11.8 mpg (at 4000rpm)

How many miles per gallon does a 60 HP outboard get?

You can expect the fuel mileage of 60 HP outboards to be 5-7 mpg at WOT and 7-12 mpg at 3500-4000 RPM.

How Much Fuel Does a 70-75 HP Outboard Use?

You can expect the fuel consumption of 70-75 HP outboards to be in the ballpark of 5.5-7.5 gph at WOT and 2.7-4 gph at 4000 RPM.

Unlike their smaller siblings, these motors typically house larger-displacement, 1500-2000cc, 4-cylinder engines.

Rider Boats 192 Pro Sport (19’2”, alu) + Honda BF75 9 gph / 3.9 mpg (at WOT-6200rpm) 3.9 gph / 5.4 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Polar Kraft V 186 T (18’6”, alu) + Honda BF75 : 7.6 gph / 5 mpg (at WOT-5600rpm) 2.9 gph / 9.1 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Hewescraft 160 Sportsman (16’5”, alu) + Honda BF75: 7.7 gph / 4.8 mpg (at WOT-5500rpm) 4.5 gph / 5.9 mpg (at 4000rpm)
4.65m fishing boat + Yamaha F70 6 gph at WOT and 3.2 gph at 4500 RPM (24 mph)
Stessco Renegade 480 + Yamaha F70 5.8 gph at WOT and 2.7 gph at 4000 RPM (21 mph)

How many miles per gallon does a 70-75 HP outboard get?

70-75 HP outboards can get anywhere from 4-5 mpg at WOT and 5.5-9 mpg at 3500-4000 RPM.

How Much Fuel Does a 90 HP Outboard Use?

As a rule of thumb, 90 HP outboards get 7-10 gph at WOT and 3.2-4.5 gph at best cruise speed (3500-4000 RPM).

As further reference, here are some factory test results:

Manitou Aurora LE Angler (20” pontoon) + Mercury F90: 7.9 gph/3 mpg (at WOT-23.8 mph) 4.1 gph/4.2 mpg (at 4000 RPM-17.1 mph)
SmokerCraft 17 Excursion + Mercury F90: 8.3 gph/4.6 mpg (at WOT-38 mph) 4 gph/5.8 mpg (at 4000 RPM-23.3 mph)
Weldcraft 173 Rebel (17’3”, alu) + Honda BF90: 9.4 gph / 4.1 mpg (at WOT-6200rpm) 3.3 gph / 7.6 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Ugly Boats 22’ Panga + Honda BF90: 10.5 gph / 3.6 mpg (at WOT-6250rpm) 4.5 gph / 5.7 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Smoker Craft Ultima 172 (17’2”) + Honda BF90: 9 gph / 4.6 mpg (at WOT-6100rpm) 3.6 gph / 7 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Bar Crusher 535XS center console + Yamaha F90: 9.8 gph at WOT and 4 gph at 4300 RPM (28 mph)

How many mpg does a 90 HP outboard get?

The fuel mileage of 90 HP outboards is from 5-9 mpg at 3500-4000 RPM and 3-5 mpg at full throttle.

How Much Fuel Does a 100 HP Outboard Use?

Depending on the size and weight of the vessel it’s rigged on, you can expect the fuel economy of a 100 HP outboard motor to be 9.5-11 gph at WOT and 3-4.7 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

Key West 1720 Sportsman (17’2”) + Honda BF100 10 gph / 4.1 mpg (at WOT-6300rpm) 4.3 gph / 5.8 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Inventech 18’ RIB + Honda BF100: 10.3 gph / 4 mpg (at WOT-6100rpm) 3.1 gph / 8.6 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Highfield Deluxe 540 (17’8” RIB) + Honda BF100: 10.1 gph / 4 mpg (at WOT-6250rpm) 4.2 gph / 5.3 mpg (at 4000rpm)

How many miles per gallon does a 100 HP outboard get?

100 HP outboard motors get roughly 2.5-4.5 mpg at WOT and 4.5-9 mpg at cruising speed.

How Much Fuel Does a High-Performance Outboard Use?

The engine power of high-performance outboards ranges from 100 HP up to 600 HP.

These large motors are not only significantly heavier than their midrange counterparts but they tend to burn much more fuel as well.

Generally speaking, the fuel usage of high-performance outboards ranges from 10 to 55 gph at WOT, which can be reduced to 3.5-23 gph at best cruising speed.

Let’s move on and talk about the different classes one by one!

How Much Fuel Does a 115 HP Outboard Use?

115 HP outboard motors typically burn 10-12 gph at WOT and 3.5-5 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

As an example, a Yamaha F115 rigged on a 19-footer center console cruised at 23-25 mph burning fuel at 4 gph. At WOT, the fuel consumption increases to 10-11 gph.

Other factory test results:

Bayliner Trophy T18 Bay + Mercury F115: 10.2 gph/3.5 mpg (at WOT-35.9 mph) 3.7 gph/5.6 mpg (at 3500 RPM – 20.4 mph)
Crestliner XFC 189 + Mercury Pro XS115: 10.1 gph/4.5 mpg (at WOT-15.3 mph) 6.1 gph/4.8 mpg (at 4000 RPM-29 mph)
Walker Bay Generation 525 (17’2” RIB) + Honda BF115 : 10.5 gph / 3.95 mpg (at WOT-5650rpm) 4.95 gph / 5.68 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Lund Tournament Pro SE (17.6’, alu) + Honda BF115: 10.3 gph / 4.1 mpg (at WOT-6000rpm) 4.5 gph / 6.3 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Alumacraft Trophy 175 ( 17’8”, alu) + Honda BF115 : 10.2 gph / 4.03 mpg (at WOT-5750rpm) 5.1 gph / 4.71 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Carolina Skiff 19LS + Suzuki DF115 : 11.1 gph / 3.74 mpg (at WOT-6000rpm) 4.3 gph / 5.97 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Alumacraft Competitor 175 Sport + Suzuki DF115BTGX 10.6 gph/3.91 mpg (at WOT-41 mph) 3.8 gph/6.92 mpg (at 4000 RPM-27.1 mph)

How many MPG does a 115 HP outboard get?

115 HP outboards typically get 2-4 mpg at full throttle and 4-8 mpg at 3500-4000 RPM.

How Much Fuel Does a 150 HP Outboard Use?

Popular 150 HP outboard motors can burn anywhere from 12-17 gph at WOT and 4.5-7 gph at best cruising speed (3500-4000 RPM).

Crestliner 2050 Commander + Mercury F150: 14 gph/3.4 mpg (at WOT-46.9 mph) 5.5 gph/5.2 mpg (at 3500 RPM – 28.6 mph)
FourWinns HD 180 + Mercury F150: 14.1 gph/3.3 mpg (at WOT-47 mph) 5.1 gph/4.9 mpg (at 3500 RPM-25 mph)
Sea Ray SPX 190 OB + Mercury F150: 14 gph/3.3 mpg (at WOT-45.7 mph) 7.1 gph/4.7 mpg (at 4000RPM-33.2 mph)
Northwest Jet (20’) + Honda BF150: 14.6 gph / 2.6 mpg (at WOT-6000rpm) 5.5 gph / 4.1 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Mako 192 Center Console (19’4”) + Honda BF150: 15.4 gph / 2.9 mpg (at WOT-6150rpm) 6.3 gph / 4.3 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Hewescraft Pro Vee ET 20 (22’) + Honda BF150: 14.4 gph / 3 mpg (at WOT-6000rpm) 4.6 gph / 5.9 mpg (at 4000rpm)
Chaparral 21 H2O Sport + Yamaha F150 16.6 gph at WOT and 5.6 gph at 3500 RPM

How many mpg does a 150 HP outboard get?

Simply put, a 150 HP outboard gets 3.5-6 mpg when cruising and 2-3.5 mpg at WOT.

How Much Fuel Does a 175 HP Mercury Outboard Use?

You can expect the fuel economy of 175 HP outboard motors to be 12-18 gph at WOT and 4-8 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

SmokerCraft Pro Angler 182 XL + Mercury F175: 17 gph/2.9 mpg (at WOT-48.8 mph) 7.3 gph/4.3 mpg (at 4000 RPM-31.7 mph)
Bayliner Trophy T20 CX + Mercury Pro XS 175: 13.3 gph/2.6 mpg (at WOT-34.1 mph) 5.6 gph/3.9 mpg (at 4000 RPM-22.2 mph)
Avalon Catalina 2385 QL + Mercury Pro XS 175: 16.4 gph/2.4 mpg (at WOT-41 mph) 7.7 gph/3.5 mpg (at 4000 RPM-27.1 mph)
Blu Wave 220 STL Super Tunnel + Suzuki DF175TL: 16.2 gph/2.68 mpg (at WOT-43.4 mph) 6.1 gph/4.67 mpg (at 4000 RPM-28.5 mph)
C-Hawk 23 + Suzuki DF175TX: 17 gph/2.85 mpg (at WOT-48.5 mph) 6.2 gph/4.84 mpg (at 4000 RPM-30 mph)

How many mpg does a 175 HP outboard get?

175 HP outboard motors get anywhere from 3.5-5 mpg at 3500-4000 RPM and 2-3 mpg at WOT.

How Much Fuel Does a 200 HP Outboard Use?

200 HP outboard motors typically use 16-20 gph at WOT and 6-9 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

Sea Ray SPX 230 OB + Mercury F200: 16.7 gph/2.6 mpg (at WOT-43.2 mph) 7.2 gph/3.9 mpg (at 4000 RPM-28.4 mph)
Lund 1875 Tyee + Mercury Pro XS 200: 18.6 gph/2.9 mpg (at WOT-53.3 mph) 8.2 gph/4.1 mpg (at 4000 RPM-33.7 mph)
Bennington 2275 RCW pontoon + Yamaha VF200LA: 18.8 gph/2.26 mpg (at WOT-42.5 mph) 8.6 gph/2.96 mpg (at 3500 RPM – 20.1 mph)
Dusky Sport Center 227 + Suzuki DF200ATX: 18.4 gph/2.61 mpg (at WOT-48 mph) 6.9 gph/3.39 mpg (at 3500 RPM – 23.4 mph)
Sundance Sea Born FX22 + Suzuki DF200ATXW: 19.5 gph/2.49 mpg (at WOT-48.6 mph) 7.5 gph/3.92 mpg (at 3500 RPM – 29.4 mph)

How many mpg does a 200 HP outboard get?

200 HP outboard motors get anywhere from 3-5 mpg at 3500-4000 RPM and 2-3 mpg at WOT.

How Much Fuel Does a 225 HP Outboard Use?

The fuel economy of 225 HP outboard motors averages between 18-22 gph at WOT and 7.5-10 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

Quicksilver 675 Weekender + Mercury F225: 18.1 gph/2.4 mpg (at WOT-42.7 mph) 7.4 gph/3.6 mpg (at 4000 RPM-26.6 mph)
Lund 2075 Tyee Mag + Mercury F225: 18.4 gph/2.8 mpg (at WOT-51.9 mph) 9.4 gph/3.8 mpg (at 4000 RPM-36 mph)
Pro-Line Boats 23 Sport + DF225TX: 19.5 gph/2.31 mpg (at WOT-45.1 mph) 7.8 gph/3.63 mpg (at 4000 RPM-28.3 mph)
Sea Pro 239 Deep V CC + DF225TX: 19.2 gph/2.23 mpg (at WOT-42.7 mph) 7.9 gph/3.18 mpg (at 4000 RPM-25.2 mph)

How many mpg does a 225 HP outboard get?

225 HP outboards get roughly 3-4 mpg at 4000 RPM and 2-3 mpg at WOT.

How Much Fuel Does a 250 HP Outboard Use?

The fuel economy of 250 HP outboard motors falls into the ballpark of 20-25 gph at WOT and 8-12 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.

Nautic Star 227 XTS + Mercury F250: 23.4 gph/2.5 mpg (at WOT-58.5 mph) 9.1 gph/4 mpg (at 4000 RPM-36.3 mph)
Grady White Fisherman 216 + Mercury F250: 21.2 gph/2.2 mpg (at WOT-47.5 mph) 10 gph/3.4 mpg (at 4000 RPM-34.2 mph)
Harris Grand Mariner 250 + Mercury F250: 22.3 gph/2 mpg (at WOT-44.7 mph) 8.4 gph/2.4 mpg (at 4000 RPM-19.8 mph)
Alumacraft Competitor 205 Sport + Suzuki DF250TX: 21.6 gph/2.45 mpg (at WOT-52.9 mph) 8.4 gph/4.2 mpg (at 4000 RPM-34.4 mph)
Carolina Skiff Sea Chaser 26 LX + Suzuki DF250APX: 22.5 gph/2.18 mpg (at WOT-49 mph) 9.9 gph/3.33 mpg (at 4000 RPM-34.4 mph)

How many mpg does a 250 HP outboard get?

250 HP outboards get roughly 3-4 mpg at 4000 RPM and 2-2.5 mpg at WOT.

How Much Fuel Does a 300 HP Outboard Use?

Based on our research, 300 HP outboards get roughly 22-30 gph at WOT and 9-14 gph at cruising speed.

Glastron GTD 240 + Mercury F300: 22.7 gph/2.2 mpg (at WOT-50.2 mph) 9.4 gph/3.4 mpg (at 4000 RPM-31.7 mph)
Glastron GTD 240 + Mercury F300: 24 gph/2.1 mpg (at WOT-49.3 mph) 10.4 gph/2.9 mpg (at 4000 RPM-30.6 mph)
Smoker Craft SLS 5 + Mercury Verado 300: 29.4 gph/1.5 mpg (at WOT-45.1 mph) 10.3 gph/2.4 mpg (at 4000 RPM – 24.3 mph)
Hells Bay Estero DF300AP + DF300APX4W: 26.1 gph/2.18 mpg (at WOT-56.8 mph) 9.2 gph/3.72 mpg (at 4000 RPM-34.4 mph)
Pair Customs 2400 CC + DF300AP: 27.2 gph/1.99 mpg (at WOT-54.2 mph) 8.7 gph/3.99 mpg (at 4000 RPM-34.4 mph)

How many mpg does a 300 HP outboard get?

300 HP outboards get roughly 2.5-4 mpg at 4000 RPM and 1.5-2 mpg at WOT.

How Much Fuel Does a 400-450 HP Outboard Use?

Let’s face it, 400-450 HP outboards are rarely used in a single configuration. When they are, these motors consume roughly 35-45 gph at WOT and 9.5-17 gph while cruising.

Barletta L25UC Pontoon + Single Mercury Verado 400: 37.3 gph/1.3 mpg (at WOT-49.7 mph) 9.6 gph/2.7 mpg (at 4000 RPM-26 mph)
Belzona 32CC + Twin Mercury Verado 400: 74 gph/0.7 mpg (at WOT-52.3 mph) 20.5 gph/1.2 mpg (at 4000 RPM-24.3 mph)
Axopar 37 T-Top + Twin Mercury Verado 400: 73.5 gph/0.8 mpg (at WOT-59.5 mph) 21.3 gph/1.6 mpg (at 4000 RPM-34.3 mph)

How many mpg does a 400-450 HP outboard get?

Single 400 HP outboard setups get 2-3 mpg at 4000 RPM and 1-2 mpg at WOT, while a twin configuration gets 1-1.5 gph at 4000 RPM and 0.6-0.9 gph at WOT.

How Much Fuel Does a 600 HP Outboard Use?

One of the most powerful mass-production outboard motors is the Mercury Verado 600.

Rigged as a single, this motor burns 45-55 gph at WOT and 15-23 gph at 3500-4000 RPM. When used in a twin configuration, you can expect a fuel usage of 90-100 gph at full throttle and 35-45 gph at cruising speed.

Bennington 28QXFBWAX1 + Single Mercury Verado 600: 47.8 gph/1.2 mpg (at WOT-55.6 mph) 17.6 gph/1.9 mpg (at 4000 RPM-33 mph)
Boston Whaler 380 Outrage + Twin Mercury Verado 600: 98.7 gph/0.6 mpg (at WOT-55.6 mph) 38.1 gph/0.9 mpg (at 4000 RPM-33 mph)
Cruiser Yachts 42 GLS + Twin Mercury Verado 600: 100.1 gph/0.5 mpg (at WOT-49.3 mph) 41.6 gph/0.7 mpg (at 4000 RPM-29.3 mph)
Formula 380 + Twin Mercury Verado 600: 96.5 gph/0.6 mpg (at WOT-49.3 mph) 42.6 gph/0.8 mpg (at 4000 RPM-34.7 mph)

How many mpg does a 600 HP outboard get?

A single 600 HP outboard gets around 1.5-2.5 mpg at 4000 RPM and 1-1.5 mpg at WOT, while a twin configuration gets 0.7-1 gph at 4000 RPM and 0.5-0.6 gph at WOT.

Takeaways – Outboard Fuel Consumption Chart

As a takeaway, we’ve compiled the average mpg and gph figures of outboards motors under one roof:

Outboard GPH Chart

Outboard mpg chart.

Disclaimer: These charts are for informational purposes only! Factors such as weight, hull design, water conditions, propeller pitch, etc. may affect the consumption figures.

performancedata.mercurymarine.com , www.yamaha-motor.com.au , https://marine.honda.com/ https://www.suzukimarine.com/

As a rule of thumb, the fuel consumption of Honda outboards averages somewhere between 0.32…

As a rule of thumb, the fuel consumption of Mercury outboards averages somewhere between 0.3…

As a rule of thumb, the fuel consumption of Yamaha outboards averages between 0.3 and…

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Six presumed dead after cargo ship crash levels Baltimore bridge

BALTIMORE — A major Baltimore bridge collapsed like a house of cards early Tuesday after it was struck by a container ship, sending six people to their deaths in the dark waters below, and closing one of the country’s busiest ports.

By nightfall, the desperate search for six people who were working on the bridge and vanished when it fell apart had become a grim search for bodies.

“We do not believe that we’re going to find any of these individuals still alive,” Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon N. Gilreath said.

Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, said earlier that one of his workers had survived. He did not release their names.

Up until then, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore had held out hope that the missing people might be found even as law enforcement warned that the frigid water and the fact that there had been no sign of them since 1:30 a.m. when the ship struck Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Moore expressed heartbreak after officials suspended the search for survivors.

"Our heart goes out to the families," he said. "I can’t imagine how painful today has been for these families, how painful these hours have been have been for these families."

It was a crushing blow to the loved ones of the missing men, who had waited for hours at a Royal Farms convenience store near the entrance of the bridge for word of their fate.

Follow live updates on the Baltimore bridge collapse

The tragic chain of events began early Tuesday when the cargo ship Dali notified authorities that it had lost power and issued a mayday moments before the 984-foot vessel slammed into a bridge support at a speed of 8 knots, which is about 9 mph.

Moore declared a state of emergency while rescue crews using sonar detected at least five vehicles in the frigid 50-foot-deep water: three passenger cars, a cement truck and another vehicle of some kind. Authorities do not believe anyone was inside the vehicles.

Investigators quickly concluded that it was an accident and not an act of terrorism.

Ship was involved in another collision

Earlier, two people were rescued from the water, Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace said. One was in good condition and refused treatment, he said. The other was seriously injured and was being treated in a trauma center.

Moore said other drivers might have been in the water had it not been for those who, upon hearing the mayday, blocked off the bridge and kept other vehicles from crossing.

“These people are heroes,” Moore said. “They saved lives.”

Nearly eight years ago, the Dali was involved in an accident. In July 2016, it struck a quay at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium, damaging the quay.

The nautical commission investigated the accident, but the details of the inquiry were not immediately clear Tuesday.

The Dali is operated and managed by Synergy Group. In a statement, the company said that two port pilots were at the helm during Tuesday's crash and that all 22 crew members onboard were accounted for.

The Dali was chartered by the Danish shipping giant Maersk, which said it would have no choice but to send its ships to other nearby ports with the Port of Baltimore closed.

The bridge, which is about a mile and a half long and carries Interstate 695 over the Patapsco River southeast of Baltimore, was "fully up to code," Moore said.

National Transportation Safety Board Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy said that her agency will lead the investigation and that a data recorder on the ship could provide more information.

"But right now we're focusing on the people, on the families," she said. "The rest can wait."

President Joe Biden vowed to rebuild the bridge and send federal funds.

"This is going to take some time," the president warned. "The people of Baltimore can count on us though to stick with them, at every step of the way, till the port is reopened and the bridge is rebuilt."

Speaking in Baltimore, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg echoed the president's promise.

"This is no ordinary bridge," he said. "This is one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure."

But Buttigieg warned that replacing the bridge and reopening the port will take time and money and that it could affect supply chains.

The Port of Baltimore, the 11th largest in the U.S., is the busiest port for car imports and exports, handling more than 750,000 vehicles in 2023 alone, according to data from the Maryland Port Administration.

Image: Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses After Being Struck By Cargo Ship

Writer David Simon, a champion of Baltimore who set his TV crime drama "The Wire" on the streets of the city he once covered as a reporter, warned online that the people who will suffer the most are those whose livelihoods depend on the port.

"Thinking first of the people on the bridge," Simon posted on X . "But the mind wanders to a port city strangling. All the people who rely on ships in and out."

Timeline of crash

Dramatic video captured the moment at 1:28 a.m. Tuesday when the Dali struck a support and sent the bridge tumbling into the water. A livestream showed cars and trucks on the bridge just before the strike. The ship did not sink, and its lights remained on.

Investigators said in a timeline that the Dali's lights suddenly shut off four minutes earlier before they came back on and that then, at 1:25 a.m. dark black smoke began billowing from the ship's chimney.

A minute later, at 1:26 a.m., the ship appeared to turn. And in the minutes before it slammed into the support, the lights flickered again.

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said the workers on the bridge were repairing concrete ducts when the ship crashed into the structure.

At least seven workers were pouring concrete to fix potholes on the roadway on the bridge directly above where the ship hit, said James Krutzfeldt, a foreman.

Earlier, the Coast Guard said it had received a report that a “motor vessel made impact with the bridge” and confirmed it was the Dali, a containership sailing under a Singaporean flag that was heading for Sri Lanka.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses After Being Struck By Cargo Ship

Bobby Haines, who lives in Dundalk in Baltimore County, said he felt the impact of the bridge collapse from his house nearby.

"I woke up at 1:30 this morning and my house shook, and I was freaking out," he said. "I thought it was an earthquake, and to find out it was a bridge is really, really scary."

Families of bridge workers wait for updates

Earlier in the day, relatives of the construction crew waited for updates on their loved ones.

Marian Del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo her husband, Miguel Luna, 49, was working on the bridge.

“They only tell us that we have to wait and that they can’t give us information,” she said.

Castellon said she was "devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we don’t know how they have been rescued yet. We are just waiting for the news."

Luna's co-worker Jesús Campos said he felt crushed, too.

“It hurts my heart to see what is happening. We are human beings, and they are my folks,” he said.

Campos told The Baltimore Banner that the missing men are from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico.

Active search and rescue ends

The Coast Guard said it was suspending the active search-and-rescue effort at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

"Coast Guard’s not going away, none of our partners are going away, but we’re just going to transition into a different phase," Gilreath said at a news conference.

Maryland State Police Superintendent Roland L. Butler, Jr., said it was moving to a recovery operation. Changing conditions have made it dangerous for divers, he said.

Butler pledged to "do our very best to recover those six missing people," but the conditions are difficult.

"If we look at how challenging it is at a simple motor vehicle crash to extract an individual, I'm sure we can all imagine how much harder it is to do it in inclement weather, when it's cold, under the water, with very limited to no visibility," he said.

"There's a tremendous amount of debris in the water," which can include sharp metal and other hazards, and that could take time, Butler said.

'A long road in front of us'

Built in 1977 and referred to locally as the Key Bridge, the structure was later named after the author of the American national anthem.

The bridge is more than 8,500 feet long, or 1.6 miles. Its main section spans 1,200 feet, and it was one of the longest continuous truss bridges in the world upon its completion, according to the National Steel Bridge Alliance .

About 31,000 vehicles a day use the bridge, which equals 11.3 million vehicles per year, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority.

The river and the Port of Baltimore are both key to the shipping industry on the East Coast, generating more than $3.3 billion a year and directly employing more than 15,000 people.

Asked what people in Baltimore can expect going forward, the state's transportation secretary said it is too early to tell.

"Obviously we reached out to a number of engineering companies, so obviously we have a long road in front of us," Wiedefeld said.

Julia Jester reported from Baltimore, Patrick Smith from London, Corky Siemaszko from New York and Phil Helsel from Los Angeles.

Julia Jester is a producer for NBC News based in Washington, D.C.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.

Corky Siemaszko is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital.

The Dali was just starting a 27-day voyage.

The ship had spent two days in Baltimore’s port before setting off.

Share full article

The side of a large ship, painted blue, with the words “Dali” and “Singapore,” sitting at a port.

By Claire Moses and Jenny Gross

Published March 26, 2024 Updated March 27, 2024

The Dali was less than 30 minutes into its planned 27-day journey when the ship ran into the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday.

The ship, which was sailing under the Singaporean flag, was on its way to Sri Lanka and was supposed to arrive there on April 22, according to VesselFinder, a ship tracking website.

The Dali, which is nearly 1,000 feet long, left the Baltimore port around 1 a.m. Eastern on Tuesday. The ship had two pilots onboard, according to a statement by its owners, Grace Ocean Investment. There were 22 crew members on board, the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore said in a statement. There were no reports of any injuries, Grace Ocean said.

Before heading off on its voyage, the Dali had returned to the United States from Panama on March 19, harboring in New York. It then arrived on Saturday in Baltimore, where it spent two days in the port.

Maersk, the shipping giant, said in a statement on Tuesday that it had chartered the vessel, which was carrying Maersk cargo. No Maersk crew and personnel were onboard, the statement said, adding that the company was monitoring the investigations being carried out by the authorities and by Synergy Group, the company that was operating the vessel.

“We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected,” the Maersk statement said.

The Dali was built in 2015 by the South Korea-based Hyundai Heavy Industries. The following year, the ship was involved in a minor incident when it hit a stone wall at the port of Antwerp . The Dali sustained damage at the time, but no one was injured.

Claire Moses is a reporter for the Express desk in London. More about Claire Moses

Jenny Gross is a reporter for The Times in London covering breaking news and other topics. More about Jenny Gross

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COMMENTS

How Much Fuel Does a Sailboat Use?
On average, a sailboat holds anywhere between 30 - 60 gallons of fuel on board. This provides a theoretical range of 350 - 600 nautical miles at a fuel consumption of 0.5 GPH. In practice, fuel consumption averages at 1 GPH, making the range 200 - 300 NM. Whenever I dream about long passages, I always wonder how much fuel a sailboat uses.
Calculating Boat Fuel Consumption for Smart Boating
The roar of the boat motor and the number of miles it can go on a single gallon of fuel are crucial elements to consider while out on the water. These two concepts, known as 'boat motor pitch' and 'miles per gallon (MPG),' hold the key to unlocking optimal boating performance. So pay attention, because your next adventure may depend on it.
How Much Fuel Does A Sailboat Consume?
On Average, a 20 - 30 Horsepower sailboat uses about 1.5 - 2.5 gallons of fuel per hour. Bigger engines (40 -50 Hp) uses about 2.5 - 3.5 gals/h. These figures do not take the weather condition, the drag and size of the boat into account. However, they provide a close estimate that help us understand fuel consumption.
Feel The Burn: The Fuel Consumption Equation
Let's look at some actual numbers from a full-displacement trawler in the 40- to 50-foot range: 7.5 knots @ 3 GPH = 2.5 nMPG. If we push for a little more speed the fuel burn changes: 9 knots @ 11 GPH = 0.8 nMPG. Notice that by slowing down 1.5 knots, this boat increases its fuel economy almost 300%. Semi-displacement.
Boat Fuel Economy
Boat-Fuel-Economy / Fuel Consumption Charts & Calculator Outboard motors and Boat motors | Inboard: MerCruiser - Volvo Penta Diesel Marine engines | Outboard: Mercury ...
Boat Fuel Consumption Chart: How to Save Money on Boat Gas
Boats are different, however, in that most get the worst fuel economy just below planning speed and the best economy just above it. There are certainly some exceptions (such as some trawlers and some boats propped to go very fast) but as a general rule, the average outboard powerboat will break onto plane right around 3000 to 3500 RPM.
Calculating Boat Fuel Consumption
Calculating a boats fuel consumption proves important to boaters for number of reasons. With knowledge of a boat's fuel economy-how much fuel the boat burns per mile or nautical mile of travel-boaters can estimate the range they can safely expect to run. Some boaters go as far as to develop a boat fuel consumption chart for their boat.
MPG, could i expect on say a 40' boat?
Most recommend 80% of max RPM. Do some simple math and you'll find the savings isn't as great as you might expect. Slower speeds mean you'll be out on the water longer still burning fuel although at a lower rate. Based on a 1000 nautical mile trip running at 6 vs 8kts may save you at best .5 GPH.
How to Calculate Outboard Motor Size for Sailboats
To get the right amount of horsepower needed to efficiently propel a sailboat, divide the displacement of the boat (in lb) by 550. You need approximately 1 HP per 550 lb of displacement or 4 HP per 2200 lb. Most sailboats don't need a motor with more than 30 HP. In this article, I'm talking about small outboard engines for sailboats.
The Best Outboard Motor for a Sailboat
4-18 HP for boats between 20-30' (approximately 2,000-10,000lbs) 18-34 HP for boats between 30-40' (10,000lbs or more) There are some things to consider when deciding how much horsepower you need or want. Location and the type of conditions you expect you'll be sailing in is one of the biggest factors.
Sailboat motor and engines
Your vessel, reborn. Every enjoyable journey at sea starts with reliable power. Fitting your sailboat with an entirely new Volvo Penta engine, or upgrading your existing one with Volvo Penta sailboat repowering kits, is the best way to make every voyage as magical as you want it to be. Explore repowering options.
Average Boat MPG (How Far Can You Go?)
An average boat MPG or gallons per hour is around 1-4 gallons per mile at an average of 20knots. keep in mind that there are hundreds if not thousands of boat brands, dozens of boat engine sizes and brands, and types (jet, outboard, inboard, and I/O) (2-Stroke and 4-Stroke). There is also fuel type, gas or diesel.
Average Boat Mileages: With 50 Examples of Different Boat Models
On average, a pontoon boat gets around 3.5 mpg (miles per gallon) at MAX RPMs. However, the mileage can vary from as small as 1.5 mpg or less to as high as 7 mpg or more depending on the weather condition, boat's weight, boat's condition, RPMs, and most importantly, the boat's engine type, etc. The average pontoon boat will get around 5 ...
What Is Considered Good Fuel Economy for a Boat?
According to Boating World, a typical-sized boat gets about four to five mpg on average. However, the motor type will always factor into a boat's fuel efficiency. Some motors can get up to 10 mpg or more. Plus, diesel-powered motors tend to have a much more efficient fuel economy and can easily get up to 20 mpg.
Chart
Fuel consumption Chart - Mercury - Evinrude - Honda Marine - Yamaha Marine - Suzuki Marine - Johnson - Outboard Motors | MerCruiser - Volvo Penta Diesel Inboards | GPH MPG LPH KPL Miles per Gallon - Gallons per Hour | Kilometers per Liter - Liters per Hour
How Much Gas Do Boats Use? 5 Boat Types Explained
Many small, personal watercraft boats tend to use 3-8 gallons of gas per hour at cruising speeds, while faster boats like speed and motorboats can use 20-30 gallons an hour. Depending on the weight, size, and style of your boat, you will use within this very large range. Instead of painstakingly trying to figure out your gas mileage, consider ...
Boat Fuel Cost Calculator
On average, boats might achieve fuel efficiency ranging from 2 to 8 miles per gallon (MPG). How much gas does a 40 hp boat motor use? The fuel consumption of a 40 HP boat motor can vary based on the boat's weight, speed, and load. On average, a 40 HP outboard might use around 4 to 6 gallons per hour (GPH).
Small boat owners < 24', what MPG do you get [include boat and motor
2001 24 ft Pathfinder bayboat with a 2004 Honda 225 hp four stroke. Boat and motor about 3,000 lbs empty. It has an 80 gallon fuel tank and a t-top with an electronics box.
The Outboard Expert: Fuel Economy Secrets
May 30, 2007. As gas prices soar, even this little can can cost a boater $24 to fill. High gas prices took some of the fun out of the Memorial Day weekend, which marks the beginning of the pleasure-boating season here in the Midwest. As gas approaches $4.00 per gallon, even owners of small runabouts are looking at a $150 bill for a fill-up.
Fuel consumption calculator
Fuel consumption calculator - MerCruiser - Cummins MerCruiser - Crusader - Volvo Penta Diesel - Mercury - Evinrude - Honda Marine - Yamaha Marine - Suzuki Marine - Tohatsu - Johnson - Outboards | GPH MPG LPH KPL
Outboard Motor Comparisons
Most Popular Outboard Motors. MERCURY 600HP Verado, YAMAHA 425HP XTO, SUZUKI 350HP, MERCURY 350HP Verado, YAMAHA 300HP, MERCURY 300HP FourStroke, YAMAHA 250HP VMAX, HONDA 250HP, MERCURY 250HP FourStroke, MERCURY 250HP Pro XS, YAMAHA 200HP, MERCURY 150HP FourStroke. Looking for outboard motor comparisons?
How Much Fuel Does an Outboard Use? [GPH Chart]
3.3 gph / 7.6 mpg (at 4000rpm) Ugly Boats 22' Panga + Honda BF90: 10.5 gph / 3.6 mpg (at WOT-6250rpm) ... you can expect the fuel economy of a 100 HP outboard motor to be 9.5-11 gph at WOT and 3-4.7 gph at 3500-4000 RPM. ... The fuel economy of 250 HP outboard motors falls into the ballpark of 20-25 gph at WOT and 8-12 gph at 3500-4000 RPM.
Six presumed dead after cargo ship crash levels Baltimore bridge
The Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, partially collapsed early Tuesday, police said. It was hit by a ship, officials said.
US Gallons
Boat Fuel Economy Outboard Motors : Mercury - Evinrude - Yamaha - Suzuki - Honda - Tohatsu | Fuel Consumption per Hour - US Gallons GPH MPG | Also: Liters and Imperial Gallons per Hour
Dali Ship That Hit Key Bridge Was Destined for Sri Lanka
The ship had spent two days in Baltimore's port before setting off. By Claire Moses and Jenny Gross The Dali was less than 30 minutes into its planned 27-day journey when the ship ran into the ...

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11 Ways To Make Your Boat Fuel Efficient

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