The 4 things you should be looking out for in a yacht engine and propulsion system

Life on the ocean waves is the dream for yacht owners around the world. It is the reason you bought your boat, to allow you to coast around on the calm blue oceans and live life to the fullest. Unfortunately, as soon as you invest in your yacht, you realise there is much more to boat ownership than flicking the switch and setting off. Beneath the luxurious exterior, the boat requires constant ongoing maintenance and care to ensure that everything from the steering to rust has been taken care of. Knowing how to look after these parts, or at the very least what you should look for in them, is an essential part of boat ownership.

One of the two most important parts of the system are the propulsion system and the engine or, increasingly found on boats as the integrated propulsion system. So, whether you are looking for a new boat and considering what type of system to buy, or looking to replace these core parts of your boat, here are the most important top line stats and features you should be looking out for.

1. A long cruising range

Even if you are not planning on a long trip with your boat, having a longer cruising range (the maximum distance you can go and return safely) means peace of mind for you when you are out and about on the sea. You don't want to have to turn around constantly or refill the tank every day!

2. A high top speed

You would not have bought a boat if you didn't want to live a little, and a higher top speed gives you the adrenaline rush and sense of fun which made you buy it in the first place. While you won't be driving at tops speeds through the marina, it is still a great experience to know that as soon as you hit the open water, you are free to roam as fast as the boat will take you.

3. Low CO2 emissions

You don't want to spend the day surrounded by unclean air or knowing that you are polluting the ocean environment, so look out for a system which has the lowest CO2 emissions possible. This will make your entire trip a whole lot nicer.

4. A quiet ride

There's not much use in taking family and friends out on the ocean if you can't hear a word they are saying! Always make sure your engine and propulsion systems have as little noise pollution as possible.

For more information, contact your local Volvo Penta IPS dealer.