Wayne.B wrote in message . ..
On 15 Nov 2004 14:29:56 GMT, (BllFs6) wrote:
Now, lets say I get the typical mostly enclosed small sailboat. Say 18 to 22
footer.
How many HP would I need to push such a vessel at hull speed? And say for
example that it calculates at 4HP, how much more power should I have in reserve
to fight wind, waves, bad weather, avoiding running the engine at max power etc
etc....
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3 or 4 hp would push it to hull speed (around 5 kts) in flat water and
light wind. A total of 6 to 8 hp would be plenty for adverse
conditions.
Some things to consider:
Get the longest shaft that you can to minimize prop pull out on wave
tops.
Get a prop with at least 3 or 4 blades and a low pitch, so that the
engine can get up to speed and develop maximum thrust. They are
available for small OBs but it may take some shopping around.
While you are at it, get comfortable with sailing at the same time.
It's lots of fun and the ultimate in redundant backup systems.
Redundancy indeed...A friend of mine always said his ketch had 5
engines. One diesel and 4 sails.
anyway, a couple other things to think about - if you're talking about
a sailboat with no 'thingamabobs' as being one without the standing
rig itself....bad idea. if it's stability you're looking for, leave
the rig there, even if you don't intend to sail it. You'll be much
better off.
Also, learn to sail! If efficiency is a concern, you can't get much
more efficient than 'free fuel'! i.e. the wind! And it's fun,
rewarding, and frankly, will teach you a lot more about being on the
water than any power boat. Tides, current, wind, weather...right down
to the benefit of tying a decent knot etc...all become more apparent
under sail, and that knowledge does help you become a better overall
boater in my opinion.
Lastly, one thing to be said for the powerboat comparison you
mentioned r.e. bad weather...yes, a small sailboat will likely have a
'better' comparitive ride, but the small powerboat will probably be
tucked back into port while you're still enjoying that 'better' ride!
I don't know, having owned both - they each have their benefits, but
I'd have to say (keeping in mind I now own a 42' trawler) that I
enjoyed sailing that small Alberg 22' sloop as much or more than
running any of the other smaller powerboats I've owned.
Best of luck....
Capt. Rob Welling
Sarasota, FL