Will a 9.9 HP motor be enough power on a 13' Saturn? I plan on using the boat for small lakes, rivers, and an occasional, close to shore trip on the big water.
Hate to be a wimp, but money is an issue as I put this project together.
Re: 13' Saturn With a 9.9.................Enough Power?
In my experience the 9.9 will be fine if you are not taking a load of folks, gear and want moderate speed. It's certainly easier on your back than a 15, or 25 hp. BTW - my favorite acronym in boating - "bring out another thousand." It's always expensive which is why I like kayaks 3/4's of the time.
Re: 13' Saturn With a 9.9.................Enough Power?
It will plane 4 adults....Although it will take awhile. However, by most standards you will be underpowered. Think of it like this. You will have the equivalent of a Ford F150 with a 4 cylinder engine.
Re: 13' Saturn With a 9.9.................Enough Power?
That's what I was afraid of. I will probably start looking at a 15HP. Wanting to go as low end as possible, but still have an operational craft that does what I need it to do.
Re: 13' Saturn With a 9.9.................Enough Power?
The Saturns are heavy boats. I have a 14' with an 18hp 4S. It will just barely plane with 4 adults worth of weight plus gear and then only go about 12 to 14 knots. A slug to say the least with that amount of weight. I'd go with TG's advice and get the 20. Either way, adding trim tabs or a cav plate fin really helps with these inflatables when using small outboards. They allow you to get on plane at slower speeds when you might otherwise not be able to. They'll easily add 5+ knots when you have your boat loaded up. Good luck.
