Marine Fuel Economy
The
price of gas has been a growing concern for boaters and drivers
alike. Recently, the NMMA put out a report on the issue.
According to the NMMA, the developments made in the technology of
marine engines have increased so significantly that newer engines
now burn fuel 50% more effectively. This is great news for
boaters, because it means that even if gas prices double, the cost
to operate your boat will be no higher than it was ten years ago.
Furthermore, the NMMA reports that the
Recreational
Marine
Research
Center
has found that 64% of boaters purchase less than 50 gallons of gas
per season. This is the equivalent to filling an SUV or
Minivan only twice.
Tips to lower your
fuel usage
Slow down. The faster you
go, the more gas you will use.
Use trim tabs properly to reduce drag,
especially when accelerating up to planing speeds.
Minimize idle time at the dock.
Minimize the use of onboard
generators – use electrical dock power when possible.
Have a float plan so you know exactly where
you’re going.
Make sure the hull is clean.
Don’t under-power the boat. It’s
important to have enough motor to handle the load.
Make sure the propeller is correct.
Tune-up regularly.
Use the grade of gasoline specified by the
manufacturer.
