Reduce Your Boat's Fuel Usage

Are you concerned about the efficiency of your boat's engine? Do you want to spend less time fueling up at the dock? We want you to get the most out of your boat's tank of fuel (and we're sure you do too)! So we're sharing some tips to not only help you save time and money on fueling, but also help the environment with decreased emissions.

Tune Your Engine

A properly tuned engine will get better mileage and run better. Plus will have fewer emissions. Make sure to service your engine at least once a year and follow the proper maintenance schedule recommended by your engine manufacturer.

Use The Appropriate Propeller

If your boat is slow "out of the hole" or lacks top-end speed, you might have the wrong propeller. Sometimes using the stock propeller may not be the best choice for your type of boating. By experimenting with different props, you may find one that saves fuel and improves performance. The biggest thing you have to worry about with the pitch in the propeller is to make sure the pitch of the propeller allows the motor to generate or run in its recommended RPM range.

Drain Your Boat of Unnecessary Water

Before leaving the dock, be sure to drain your boat of unnecessary water. The lighter your boat is the better gas mileage you'll get.

Reduce Unnecessary Weight

Carry only the gear you will need for your boating excursion. Clear your decks of clutter and lower canvas tops as they create drag. Even having more than one anchor is not always necessary.

Balance Your Load

By balancing your boat's load, you allow your it to plane quickly. Many boats are stern heavy with passengers, motor, batteries and fuel. Consider asking passengers to move forward when accelerating and getting on plane.

Throttle Back To Cruising Speed After Start

Once you get up on a plane, throttle back slightly and find that speed where your boat is on plane and the motor is running smooth without effort. Your boat will ride smooth and level and will perform at its best once you find this speed.

Keep The Boat In Trim

Using your trim tabs and distributing weight evenly will help move your boat through the water with less effort and less fuel. Make sure engine height is set correctly so that your engine is not too deep in the water creating additional drag. Trim your boat so it runs flat and effortlessly.

Avoid Excess Engine Idling

Even when you are idling in neutral, your boat is consuming fuel. Plus, idling can produce potentially deadly carbon monoxide (CO) fumes.

Use The Proper Fuel To Oil Mix

If you must mix your own fuel, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Too little or too much oil can harm your engine, affect overall performance and reduce fuel efficiency.

Purchase A Low Emission Fuel Efficient Engine

When looking at a new boat or repowering your existing one, look for an engine that promises better fuel economy and lower emissions.

What other tips could you suggest in lowering fuel usage?

Summer Boating Safety Tips

Summer is in full swing! Warm weather means more people are out enjoying their boat with family and friends. It is important to remember to boat smart and responsibly. Here are some tips to keep everyone in and around your boat safe.

Wear a Life Jacket: Make sure a life jacket is available at all times for every single person aboard. It should fit properly and be stored for easy access. Adult jackets will not work for children. Always test jackets once a year for wear and buoyancy. Toss out the ones that are waterlogged or leaky.

Know The Rules: Knowing the nautical “rules of the road” is extremely important, especially when meeting, crossing or overtaking another boat. Always maintain a safe speed and keep a watchful eye on the waters around you.

Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide: All boat engines produce carbon monoxide which is an odorless, colorless and poisonous gas. Poor cabin ventilation and faulty equipment can contribute to the problem. But did you know that carbon monoxide emissions can even affect you on your boat’s swim platform and other areas near the engine where gases could build up? Be sure to install carbon monoxide detectors on your boat and be aware of the early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning (headaches, nausea, weakness and irritated eyes).

Get Your Boat Inspected: Register your boat for a free Vessel Safety Check to ensure it is safe to be on the water. A Vessel Safety Check is performed courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary to verify the presence and condition of all required safety equipment. These free checks can save lives, money, and time.

Take a Boating Safety Course: Register for a boating safety course, they are quick, inexpensive, and effective. You know, you can never be too prepared.

Drive Safe: Designate a sober driver for your boat to ensure everyone stays safe and sober. You do not want to risk the chance of getting a ticket for boating under the influence.

We hope you find these tips useful in keeping you, your family and friends safe on the water. Do you have any other safety tips to add to our list?