Proper horsepower for a 23 foot Robalo

[Belchy]

I am currently looking to purchase a 1981 Robalo 232 with a 150 Mercury (apporximately the same age as the boat.) If I decide to buy this boat, I am going to look at purchasing a new outboard, but I am not really sure what horsepower I should go with, any help would be greatly appreciated. <br /><br />Thanks<br />Brad

 

[formulafisher]

Re: Proper horsepower for a 23 foot Robalo

I would say at least 200hp. We have a 18ft whaler with a 150 a 23ft robalo is alot more boat then my little whaler.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Proper horsepower for a 23 foot Robalo

I agree with formulafisher - no less than 200.

 

[gutshot grouper]

Re: Proper horsepower for a 23 foot Robalo

My experience with my 23 Seacraft is that 200 hp is adequate to push the boat at normal cruise speed, about 24 knots in average conditions. My buddy has a 250 on his 23 Seacraft and I feel that it is ok, but you just don't need to go that fast. Most of the boats I see today seem to be vastly overpowered, especially the Sparkle Craft { bass fisherman } type. With fuel going up, we may all have to consider displacement type hulls with one lung diesels,, let's hope not,, Gutshot in Raleigh

 

[Orlando Len]

Re: Proper horsepower for a 23 foot Robalo

My brothers new 23 Contender came with twin 200 hp Yamaha HPDI’s Top speed when fully loaded for a typical SKA tournament is about 50 kts. with a 35 kts cruising speed I have never heard any one say my boat has too much power and goes to fast. I have heard plenty say they wish they had more power though. The biggest factor is what your going to be doing most of the time with this boat. Three or four adults and a full live well making long runs to the hot spot has a larger HP demand then sight seeing with the missies. <br /> My 2 cents: If the transom is still solid then 200 hp would be the bare minimum for this heavy, well built boat.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Proper horsepower for a 23 foot Robalo

I am going to look at purchasing a new outboard, but I am not really sure what horsepower I should go with,

All the HorsePower you can Afford ............... <br /><br />There's No Such Thing as Too Much Horsepower ........<br />If you've Got it,<br />You don't Have to use it..........<br />But,<br />It's There if you Need It ................

 

[Belchy]

Re: Proper horsepower for a 23 foot Robalo

I agree, horsepower i can use, mostly will be using the boat for fishing, and scuba diving. so with a boat fully loaded with dive gear can get quite heavy, i don't need to fly to dive sites but speed is helpful!