That is definately a misleading statement.
I have owned two jetboats, and several 150hp outboards.
The first "jetboat" we owned had the 240HP Sportjet, it was loud,
stunk, and was very hard on fuel. The "jetboat" we have now has a V8
Indmar 310HP 350 in it, and it is very efficient.
We tube and ski all day in the summer, with usually 4-6 other adults
in the boat. This boat has an 55 gal in floor fuel tank, and we can
run close to 3 full days on a tank, doesn't stink like the sportjet.
Some pics of the two boats are here if interested:
http://www.willcraft.com/gallery/vie...mName=JetBoats
I would have to say the choice of parts, and the hull design is what
will determine your economy etc. Top speed on this boat loaded BTW is
48mph.
Dan


On Sun, 11 May 2003 15:14:14 GMT, "Steve Barker"
wrote:

Jet drives are notoriously inefficient. Prepare to buy lot's o' gas.

Pro and cons of each vary. Lets start with the outdrive first...

Pros:
Efficient. Next to an inboard, the most efficient propulsion around.
Control. No other drive system give you better all speed control, even when
backing (Inboards have precise forward control, but virtually none in
reverse.

Cons:
Expensive. Most expensive propulsion system you can get.
Complex. The most moving parts of any drive system.
Water depth. Has the deepest draft.

Now the jet drive...

Pros:
Inexpensive. Cheapest drive system there is.
Un-complex. Only 2 moving parts on a standard drive.
Water depth. Can operate in the shallowest conditions. In some cases,
inches.

Cons:
In-efficient. Even the best jet is only 85% efficient to a prop boat.
Control. "Spongy" control (compared to an outdrive). Needs thrust to turn
effectively. Has limited, to NO steering when not under power.

--

It's just about going fast...that's all...

http://home.insight.rr.com/cgreen/

NetSock wrote:
Pro and cons of each vary. Lets start with the outdrive first...

Pros:
Efficient. Next to an inboard, the most efficient propulsion around.
Control. No other drive system give you better all speed control, even when
backing (Inboards have precise forward control, but virtually none in
reverse.

Cons:
Expensive. Most expensive propulsion system you can get.
Complex. The most moving parts of any drive system.
Water depth. Has the deepest draft.

Now the jet drive...

Pros:
Inexpensive. Cheapest drive system there is.
Un-complex. Only 2 moving parts on a standard drive.
Water depth. Can operate in the shallowest conditions. In some cases,
inches.

Cons:
In-efficient. Even the best jet is only 85% efficient to a prop boat.
Control. "Spongy" control (compared to an outdrive). Needs thrust to turn
effectively. Has limited, to NO steering when not under power.

--

It's just about going fast...that's all...

http://home.insight.rr.com/cgreen/




The wheel is on the wrong side.