RE: Fuel Economy Question
A simple equation. Speed = Money2 (money squared) So, you need to ask yourself, "How fast do I need to go?"
Some may tell you that you need some reserve speed to outrun a storm. With todays doppler radar, wind modelling, 24 hour constant news updates, weather fax, Sirius weather, and a pair of binoculars..... which storm is going to sneak up on you that 12 knots will outrun, but 7 won't?
If you believe that a 36' boat cruises at 8 knots, for the same price as a 34' boat cruises at 6 knots, then I have a bridge to sell in New York.
There is a reason that the old guys in trawler style boats cruise at 6.5 knots or so. It isn't because they get scared at 8 knots, well, most of them anyways, and it isn't because they're afraid of getting somewhere too quickly. It simply is more efficient and less costly. They've been there, bought the fuel and know the numbers. This stuff ain't rocket surgery. Look around, find a boat type/style you like and then go to the marina's on weekends and talk to the guys that run them and aren't trying to sell you anything. You just might find a couple that will tell you the things you need to know.
Ken
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