Quote:
Originally Posted by Mr. Sandman
I think it is safe to say the pleasure power boating industry will be history for a few decades. I don't see any fuel efficent power boats (Of any realistic size) on the horizon in my lifetime.
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Mr S,
I really think there is a new future for displacement hull pleasure boats in this country. Granted you have to live with 7-8 kt hull speeds but you can get some real fuel economy like 20+ mpg with some of the little diesels. It doesn't take much to push them along at hull speed. You won't be going offshore but I can see for fishing coastal waters it could be done. Over in Germany they have all sorts of horsepower taxes and restrictions, and they compensate with a lot of neat displacement hull small crafts to fill the bill for both fishing and recreation. My impression on seeing these boats in operation was not only that they got the job done but it was downright quiet and peacful compared to boating in the US.
I'll agree with you on the future for planning hulls with twin engines though. There won't be many people who'll be able to afford much more than a quick spin around the block, drop anchor and start chumming and drinking beer.
Ed