10 ways to make 10 ways to make your boat more your boat more

fuel-efficientfuel-efficientby Southern Shipwrights Limited

#1 Lighten the load#1 Lighten the load

Leave spare parts and tools at home, as these will weigh down the boat

#2 Take less water#2 Take less water

Water is heavy, so only take as much as you need for washing, cooking and

hydration

#3 Take less fuel#3 Take less fuel

Only take as much fuel as you need, plus 10-20% for safety

#4 Slow down#4 Slow down

Travelling at a lower speed will reduce the boat’s fuel consumption. A 10% reduction in speed can make it 20% more efficient

#5 Check the engine

Ease back on the throttle, and if this leads to a drop in fuel consumption without a

drop in speed the engine is probably struggling to take on air or fuel

#6 Use the tide#6 Use the tide

Plan your route around tidal timetables to reduce necessary fuel. Also ensure the

speed of the boat is well-matched to the tide, to prevent pushing a foul tide

#7 Scrub the hull#7 Scrub the hull

Marine growth can impair performance, so scrub the hull and give it a new coat of

antifoul regularly

#8 Adjust trim tabs#8 Adjust trim tabs

Trim tabs can adjust the height of the boat and reduce drag on the stern. Observe the boat’s position and adjust it on a regular

basis

#9 Check the prop#9 Check the prop

When the boat is out of the water check for bent blades, eroded edges and dings

#10 Steering

Travel the shortest distance between two points. If you use autopilot make sure the boat is not zig-zagging through the water

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