Running Costs???

[underwurlde]

Hello!

Me and the proverbial mate(s) are going to get a boat!!!

We are as yet undecided as to what we're going for (whatever comes along that takes our fancy really) but before we take the plunge we have the usual noob questions, primary of which is that of running costs.

We are looking at a speed boat, up to 18ft, 70-80hp outboard. Based in Christchurch on the south coast so perhaps looking to potter up & down the R.Stour, over the the Isle of Wight?? or launch from Beta Park in Poole and mooch over to Old Harry Rocks via Brownsea island or pop over to Bournemouth from Christchuch Harbour (Mudeford) to swan about & look at the fireworks - nothing too adventurous but I hope you get the picture...

So the burning question is HOW MUCH???
...How much does a (nautical) mile cost in terms of petrol?
...Also, with the throttle open, how fast(ish) would we be going?

Basic questions to start with so apologies for such a generic format.

Thanks in advance peeps!

Andy & Stef.

 

[45Auto]

Re: Running Costs???

Nothing wrong with basic questions to start your boating career!

Go to Boattest.com. It's free if you give them an email address, you don't have to pay anything.

Look at "Outboard Boats" and "16-20 ft" under the pull down menus at the top left.

You'll see lots of real numbers (as opposed to what people will tell you) on fuel economy and speed.

For example, a 17' Triumph with a 60HP 4-stroke gets a little over 7 NMPG at cruising speeds, and has a top speed of 32 MPH (28 knots). You'll be burning 3-4 gallons per hour at cruise (these are American gallons, not those big Imperial gallons! ). As the motor gets more powerful, the top speed goes up and the fuel economy goes down!

Have fun!