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A Beginner’s Guide to Motorboating

Motorboats are an exciting class of vessel that offer you the chance to quickly get yourself out on the water and skimming the open waves.

Types of Motorboats

The term ‘motorboat’ is something of a catch-all. Since it just refers to any boat with a motor, we need to break the category down a little further.

A speedboat is a kind of motorboat specifically designed for – you guessed it – speed. They are as streamlined as possible, with deep v-shaped hulls to powerfully cut through the waves at pace.

Larger motor cruisers are built for leisure, and can drastically vary in size. Some are kitted out for day trips, and others are full holiday cruisers with sleeping accommodation and kitchen and bathroom facilities.

Finally, any boat with a motor attached classifies as a motorboat – that includes sailboats and dinghies fitted with an outboard motor.

How Does The Engine Work?

The engine is an ‘internal combustion’ engine, just like a car’s. However, instead of rotating an axel, the engine on a motorboat drives a propeller in the water, or sometimes a jet pump. Each of these creates a strong force against the water which accelerates the boat forward.

An inboard motor is an engine that’s built-in and enclosed by the hull of the boat. In contrast, an outboard motor is a self-contained engine that is usually mounted to the back of the boat. Outboard motors can be attached to dinghies and rowing boats, transforming them into motorboats.

Care and Maintenance Of Your Motorboat

A motorboat is obviously a completely different animal to a sailboat when it comes to maintenance and repairs, for one main reason – it has an engine.

For any given motorboat, there are a few simple engine procedures and checks that need to be done every time before hitting the open waters. The procedures vary according to the type of engine, and there are specialised maintenance courses available for different engine types. Refuelling and repairs are often also covered.

Piloting a Motorboat

Piloting a motorboat is, as you’d expect, something of a specific skillset.

In many ways, it’s easier than sailing – your source of power is onboard, and there’s no need to catch the perfect wind or run around pulling ropes and ducking under the boom with the athleticism of a gymnast. You just turn power on and point the boat where you want to go, right?

That’s the essence of it, but as you’d expect, there are a few nuances. The controls are generally quite simple, consisting of not much more than throttle and steering wheel, but the movement dynamics take some getting used to. Boats aren’t like cars, because the “surface” on which they travel – water – is itself in constant flux.

One important thing to remember is that if you’re travelling parallel to waves, either natural or those caused by another boat, you’re going to be rocking from side to side quite powerfully. Aim to cut across waves at at least 45 degrees for a smoother ride.

It’s also important to know the local laws pertaining to boating , such as the minimum distance between boats, maximum speeds and other general rules – and be aware that these may also change from area to area.

A good introductory motorboating course will give you the skills you need to competently pilot a powered vessel, alongside teaching you essential maintenance, repair skills and local boating laws. Our job at The Boating Hub is to connect you to wide range of motorboat courses in the UK and further afield – and we’re confident you’ll find a course that meets your needs.

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State Boating Laws, Rules & Requirements

Find Boating Resources in Your State

Boating rules, laws and regulations vary from state to state. Use our interactive map to find everything you need to know about boating safety, life jacket requirements, minimum age necessary to operate a boat or personal watercraft (PWC) , trailer registration requirements , and other educational resources. Just click on your state to get started.

Also be sure to use the Color-Coded Key below to understand boating license and safety certificate requirements for your state.

Last Updated: July 8, 2021

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State-by-State Boating Rules and Regulations

*To make updates on your state's information, state officials should contact Emma Boone , Director, NMMA Digital Communications.

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Must-have boating license.
Life Jacket Requirements: 8 and under must wear a PFD.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 12 years old or older to operate any type vessel. 12 and 13 years olds must have someone 21 years old or older, who is a licensed operator, on board and within reach of the controls. 14 years old or older to operate alone.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 12 years old or older to operate any type vessel. 12 and 13 years olds must have someone 21 years old or older, who is a licensed operator, on board and within reach of the controls. 14 years old or older to operate alone.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers are not registered in Alabama.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Alabama, visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: No mandatory boat or water safety course educational requirements.
Life Jacket Requirements: 13 and under must wear a PFD.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: No age requirement.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): No age requirement.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers must be registered.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Alaska, visit the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Office of Boating Safety .

Life Jacket Requirements: 12 and under must wear a PFD.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: It is illegal for a person under the age of 12 to operate a vessel with a motor greater than 8 hp.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Arizona law states that it is illegal for a person under the age of 12 to operate a vessel with a motor greater than 8 hp.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Non-commercial trailers with a declared gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 10,000 lbs or less.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Arizona, visit Arizona Game & Fish .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Mandatory boating safety education law that applies to some operators of boats and/or personal watercraft.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: To operate a motorboat powered by 10hp or more: A person under 12 must have a Boat Ed (BE) certification and be under direct visible and audible supervision of a parent, guardian or person over 17 years.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 14 years or older to operate by themselves as long as they are Boat Ed certified. Persons 12 or 13 years must have BE and have a person at least 18years on board. Under 12 must have BE and have a person at least 21years on board and in a position to take immediate control of the PWC.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: All boat trailers and travel trailers drawn by any truck.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Arkansas, visit the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: California Vessel Operator Card (CVOC) required to operate a vessel.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Must be 16 or older to operate a motorboat of 15 hp or greater if unsupervised. Those 12-15 years of age may operate under supervision of a person 18 or older who is on board.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Must be 16 or older to operate a motorboat of 15 hp or greater if unsupervised. Those 12-15 years of age may operate under supervision of a person 18 or older who is on board.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Those with boats and trailers are encouraged to call the California DMV to determine if registration is needed.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in California, visit the California Department of Parks & Recreation .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Mandatory boating education law that applies to some operators of boats and/or personal watercraft.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: A person 14 years of age or older, who is less than 16 years of age, may operate a motorboat only if he or she completes a boating safety course.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): A person 14 years of age or older, who is less than 16 years of age, may operate a motorboat only if he or she completes a boating safety course.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers must be titled and registered.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Colorado, visit Colorado Parks & Wildlife .

Connecticut

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Persons must obtain a 'Safe Boating Certificate' or a 'Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation'.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 12 years old can operate up to 10 hp alone
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 16 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Connecticut, visit the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environment Protection .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Mandatory boat education law that applies to some operators of boats and/or personal watercraft.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 14 to 16 with adult on board with boating class, 16 with a boating class.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Delaware, visit the Delaware Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: All Florida residents born after January 1, 1988 who operate powered watercraft 10 hp or greater must carry a Florida Boating Safety Education Identification Card.
Life Jacket Requirements: 6 and under must wear a PFD.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Operators of personal watercraft must be at least 14 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Florida, visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: All operators born after January 1, 1998 must have passed a boater education course approved by the Department of Natural Resources and have card on board to operate any vessel.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 12 years of age.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 12 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Georgia, visit the Georgia Department of Natural Resources .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: All individuals who operate a motorized vessel, greater than 10 hp must have taken a boating safety course and show proof of certification.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 15 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Hawaii, visit the Department of Land & Natural Resources, Division of Boating & Ocean Recreation .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: No mandatory boater safety class educational requirements. However, state has boating law that applies to some operators of boats and/or personal watercraft.
Life Jacket Requirements: 14 and under must wear a PFD.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Idaho, visit the Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Valid Boating Safety Certificate issued by the Department of Natural Resources or an entity or organization recognized and approved by the Department is required.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Illinois, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Operator must be 15 years old and meet ID and education requirements or 16 years old or older with a valid motor vehicle drivers license to operate a motorboat with a motor greater than 10 hp.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Operator must be 15 years old and meet ID and education requirements or 16 years old or older with a valid motor vehicle drivers license to operate a motorboat with a motor greater than 10 hp.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Indiana, visit the Indiana Department of Natural Resources .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Minimum age 12 to operate vessel over 10 hp.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Those under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Iowa, visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 12 years of age for any vessel.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 12 years of age for any vessel.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Kansas, visit Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Must be 12 years or old to operate 10 hp or greater.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 12 years of age.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers must be titled, but not registered.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Kentucky, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: All persons born after January 1, 1984, must complete a boating education course and carry proof of completion to operate a motorboat in excess of 10 hp.
Life Jacket Requirements: 16 and under must wear a PFD.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 16 years with a boating certificate.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers must be registered and plated.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Louisiana, visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: No mandatory boating education requirements.
Life Jacket Requirements: 10 and under must wear a PFD.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: When operating a motorboat with more than 10 hp, a person under age 12 must be under immediate supervision of person in boat who is at least 16.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): A person under age 16 may not operate a PWC. A person between 16 & 18 years of age may operate a PWC if they have successfully completed an approved education course, or if they are accompanied by a person 18 years or older.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Maine, visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: When operating a towing vessel (water skiing, etc.), the operator and observer must be at least 12 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Maryland, visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources .

Massachusetts

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Operators required to have passed a state-approved boating education course must have the Boating Safety Certificate on board and available for inspection by an enforcement officer whenever the vessel is operated.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 12 years of age with direct supervision from an adult 18 years of age.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers must be registered and depending on the weight, may need to be titled.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Massachusetts, visit the Massachusetts Boating Law Summary .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Those born on or after July 1, 1996, may operate a boat legally only if they have been issued a boating safety certificate and have it on board the boat. Those born before July 1, 1996, may operate a boat legally without restrictions.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: No age requirement.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 14 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Michigan, visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Must be at least 12 years of age to operate motors over 25 hp and must be certified.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 13 years of age.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Trailers that have 3,000 lbs of gross vehicle weight or under must be registered.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Minnesota, visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources .

Mississippi

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Any person born after June 30, 1980 must complete a Boating Safety Course to operate a boat. Persons under 12 years of age must be accompanied by a person 21 or older on board the boat in order to operate the boat.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: At least 12 years of age and completed an approved boating safety course.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): At least 12 years of age and completed an approved boating safety course.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Mississippi, visit the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: All persons born after January 1, 1984, who operate any vessel on the lakes of the State of Missouri must have on board a boating safety identification card issued by the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) and a photo I.D.
Life Jacket Requirements: 7 and under must wear a PFD.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 14 years of age unless under the direct, onboard supervision of a parent, guardian, or other person 16 years of age or older.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Missouri, visit the Missouri State Highway Patrol .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: For motorboats over 10 hp: 0-12 must be accompanied by and adult, 13-14 must have certificate or be accompanied by adult, 15+ no requirements.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): For PWC over 10 hp: 0-12 must be accompanied by and adult, 13-14 must have certificate or be accompanied by adult, 15+ no requirements.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Montana, visit Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 14 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Nebraska, visit Nebraska Game & Parks .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Persons born on or after January 1, 1983 will need to have completed a boating education course to operate a motorboat of more than 15 hp on Nevada’s interstate waters.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Nevada, visit the Nevada Department of Wildlife .

New Hampshire

Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): If ski craft a minimum of 16 years of age, if PWC must be accompanied by an adult until 16 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in New Hampshire, visit the New Hampshire Department of Safety .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 13-15 years of age if vessel powered by electric motor, or if vessel is 12' or greater with engine/engines of less than 10 total hp.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 16 years of age and must possess a boating safety certificate.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Trailers weighing less than 2,500 lbs must be registered.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in New Jersey, visit the New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety, Marine Services Bureau.

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 13 years of age.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers must be registered. Some trailers may also need a weight certificate.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in New Mexico, visit the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 10 to 18 years of age must have a boating safety certificate to operate alone.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 14 years and older only if they have a boating safety certificate.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in New York, visit the New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation .

North Carolina

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Residents born after January 1, 1988 who operate powered watercraft 10 hp or greater, to have completed a NASBLA approved boating safety course.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): No one under 14 years of age may operate a PWC. Persons 14 years old up to 16 years of age may operate if they are accompanied by an adult 18 or older or have a certificate of competency from a NASBLA approved boating education course and some form of ID.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in North Carolina, visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission .

North Dakota

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Minor 12-15 years of age must be state certified to operate over a 10 hp boat without an adult on board.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Minor 12-15 years of age must be state certified to operate over a 10 hp boat without an adult on board.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers are not registered in North Dakota.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in North Dakota, visit the North Dakota Game & Fish Department .

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Ohio, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: No person less than 12 years of age may operate any vessel powered by a motor or combination of motors in excess of 10 hp or sail-powered vessel 16 feet or greater in length. A person from 12 to less than 16 years of age may operate such vessels only after successfully completing a NASBLA approved boating education course and if operating a motorboat or sail-powered vessel, must have a competent adult, 18 years of age or older, on board in a position to take control of the vessel if necessary.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): No person less than 12 years of age may operate any PWC. A person from 12 to less than 16 years of age may operate a PWC only after successfully completing a NASBLA approved boating education course and must be visually supervised within 500 yards by a competent adult 18 years of age or older.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers are not registered in Oklahoma.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Oklahoma, visit the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 16 years of age.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 16 years of age to operate alone.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers must be registered, with the exception of those under 1,800 lbs.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Oregon, visit the Oregon State Marine Board .

Pennsylvania

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: For persons born on or after January 1, 1982, to operate boats powered by motors greater than 25 hp, Boating Safety Education Certificates are required.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: You must be at least 12 years of age to operate a motorboat greater than 25 hp.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 12 years of age and older.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Pennsylvania, visit Pennsylvania Fishing Laws & Regulations .

Rhode Island

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Rhode Island, visit the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management .

South Carolina

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Boaters under 16 years of age to pass an approved boating education course before operating, without supervision, a personal watercraft (jet ski) or a boat powered by a motor of 15 hp or more.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers weighing over 2,500 lbs must be registered.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in South Carolina, visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources .

South Dakota

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Children under the age of 12 cannot operate a motorboat of more than 6 hp unless accompanied by a person at least 18 years of age.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Minimum age to operate a PWC is 14 unless accompanied by a person at least 18 years of age.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers are not registered in South Dakota.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in South Dakota, visit South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Any Tennessee resident born after January 1, 1989 must show the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency issued wallet Boating Safety Education certificate as proof of successful completion of the TWRA boating safety exam.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: No one under 12 unless operating a boat powered by an 8.5 hp or less; person at least 10 but less than 12 and the boat is at least 14 ft and the boat has a motor less than 15 hp.
Boat Trailer Registration Requirements: Boat trailers are not registered in Tennessee.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Tennessee, visit the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 16 years of age if vessel is motorized with greater than 15 hp.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Texas, visit Texas Parks & Wildlife .

Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 18 years of age unless completed PWC education course.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Utah, visit the Utah State Parks Office .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Any person under the age of 12 cannot operate a motor boat of more than 6 hp.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Must be 16 years of age or older and have a boating safety certificate.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Vermont, visit the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: All PWC operators age 14 and older and all motorboat operators regardless of age need to take a boating safety course.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Ages 14 and 15 must pass a NASBLA approved course to operate a PWC.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Virginia, visit the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Washington residents born after January 1, 1955 who operate powered watercraft 15 hp or greater, to carry a Washington Boater Education Card.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Must be 12 years of age, applies to motorboats with 15 or more hp.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): 14 years of age, when rental PWC operator must be 16 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Washington, visit the Washington State Recreation & Conservation Office .

West Virginia

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Anyone born after December 31, 1986 must successfully complete a Boating Safety Education Course before operating a motorboat or personal watercraft.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: No one under 12 may operate a motorboat over 10 hp. 12-15 may operate with an adult on board.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): No one under 12 may operate a motorboat over 10 hp. 12-15 may operate with an adult on board.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in West Virginia, visit the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources .

Resident License and/or Education Requirement: Anyone born on or after January 1, 1989 is required to complete a boating safety course to legally operate a motorized boat or personal watercraft (PWC) on Wisconsin waters.
Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: 12 years of age.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Wisconsin, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources .

Minimum Age to Operate a Vessel: Under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
Minimum Age to Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC): Under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information about detailed boating rules, regulations, and laws in Wyoming, visit the Wyoming Game & Fish Department .

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A-Z of motor boats: your ultimate guide

Motor boats don't often take centre stage in our magazine, but we're about to change that. This in-depth feature explores the different kinds of motorboats, their manufacturers, how they differ from sailboats, and weighs their pros and cons. We'll help you figure out if a motorboat is the right fit for you, when to best venture out on one, and we'll delve into the requirements and conditions for a skipper's licence. In essence, we're bringing you the complete motorboat rundown. All hail the engine!

Differences to a sailboat

The age-old debate of powerboat versus sailboat is a classic theme in many a nautical conversation. We're not here to pick a side between those who favour sails and those who prefer motors. Instead, our aim is to present you with a balanced view, packing all the necessary facts, insights, and knowledge into one comprehensive discussion.

Draft and bridges

A motorboat's draft is significantly shallower, thanks to the absence of a keel. Furthermore, the lack of a mast means there's no need to worry about the boat's height when it comes to passing under bridges. So from a depth and overhead clearance perspective, you're in safe waters with a motorboat.

YACHTING.COM TIP: If you've never sailed under the renowned Pasman-Ugljan bridge, which has spelled disaster for numerous sailing boats, a motorboat provides the perfect chance!

Space and comfort

Broadly speaking, aside from mega yachts or specialist vessels, motorboats provide more space both below and on deck compared to similarly sized sailboats. They also typically feature multiple deck levels. So you can bask in the sunshine on one deck, and find shelter in the shade on another. Furthermore, on a motorboat, you don't have to fret about a precarious jib or the risk of tripping over winches or ropes. The deck tends to be more open and free from sailing gear, allowing for easier movement and relaxation.

If you have crew members who do not tolerate the heeling of a sailboat well, this concern is completely eliminated with motor boats. Unless you're faced with sizeable waves, the boat is likely to maintain stability and you won't need to worry about any significant tilting. This makes a motorboat a more comfortable choice for those sensitive to the motion of the sea.

You wouldn't find such a load on a motorboat

A leisure sailboat simply can't match the speed of a powerboat. While most sailboats average around 7 knots, motorboats can easily reach 15 to 20 knots. If you enjoy the thrill of speed and the feeling of wind in your hair, a powerboat is the perfect choice for you.

Consumption and costs

On the flip side, with the increased speed comes higher fuel costs. While on a sailboat, you might only need to refuel at the end of your trip or 2-3 times a week at most, resulting in a manageable fuel bill. However, if you're sailing for extended periods each day on a motorboat, you'll find yourself refuelling frequently, at a higher cost, and spending a significant amount of time waiting to fill up the diesel tank.

Level of effort and work

Starting a motorboat is straightforward; turn it on and off you go, cruising wherever you fancy. There's no need to fuss over ropes, the jib, sails, lazy bags, lazy jacks, or the whereabouts of the crank. Unlike on a sailboat where there's always something to keep you occupied, a motorboat offers pure relaxation and peace of mind. If you're seeking a laid-back cruising experience, a powerboat is the way to go.

Sailing direction

As long as there are no big waves and the Bora is not blowing against you, you can sail your motorboat comfortably pretty much anywhere you want. This isn't the case with sailboats, where you might have to cruise or alter your destination if the wind is blowing directly against you. While sailboat enthusiasts often say, "the journey is the destination," powerboat users are more about reaching their destination promptly and without fuss.

A sailing ship and a motor boat at sea off the Swedish coast sailing against each other

What is the difference between a motor boat and a sailboat?

Despite their differences, powerboats and sailboats do share some commonalities, with maintenance being the prime one. Regardless of the type of boat you own, upkeep is crucial. This includes taking care of the sails or engine and ensuring regular servicing. Moreover, marina fees apply uniformly to both. The harbour masters charge based on the length of the boat, irrespective of whether it's a sailboat or a powerboat. The only exception might be a catamaran, which typically incurs a higher fee due to its dual-hulled design, making it wider and potentially occupying the space of two conventional berths.

Disadvantages of motor boats

While motor boats offer numerous advantages, it's important to consider their potential drawbacks as well. Let's take off the rose-tinted glasses and delve into some of the downsides associated with powerboats.

Fuel dependency and non-environmental operation

Unlike a sailboat that can harness the wind as a natural and free power source, a motorboat is completely reliant on diesel fuel. Running out of fuel in the middle of your journey can leave you stranded. Furthermore, this dependence on fossil fuels also means that operating a motorboat has a greater environmental impact compared to sailing.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Speaking of ecology, check out our guide — Green sailing: 11 tips for eco-friendly yachting .

Less stability in wind

Motorboats lack a significant keel, resulting in reduced stability when faced with waves and strong winds. Consequently, it is advisable to opt for motorboat rentals during the summer season, when occurrences of powerful winds and waves are comparatively infrequent.

Calm and the smell of the sea

The sound of the engine never leaves you during your voyage which can get on people's nerves. Likewise, the typical smell of burning diesel can start to bother you after a while.

Who is a motor boat best suited for?

A motor boat is well-suited for individuals seeking relaxation, tranquillity, and minimal effort. With the simple act of starting the engine, you can swiftly set sail without any additional concerns. Plus, a motor boat is highly recommended for those who desire to explore a wide range of places, including beaches and other scenic locations. It is particularly advantageous for covering long distances between islands and the mainland within the typical timeframe of a one or two-week vacation. Motor yachts are also a favourable choice for yachters who enjoy fishing, as they provide a comfortable and convenient means of transportation for navigating to different areas and indulging in fishing activities.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Find out what else you can do while sailing in our article — Top 12 fun activities to do on a sailing holiday .

Fishing is an great addition to a boating holiday.

For nature lovers seeking harmony and a closer connection to the natural environment, a sailboat is more preferable than a motorboat. Sailboats provide a serene atmosphere and allow for a deeper appreciation of nature. Additionally, if the aim is to foster teamwork and engage in shared experiences, a sailboat offers more opportunities as it involves handling ropes and sails. But if you want to relax with a bunch of friends, there's nothing better than a powerboat.

Motor boat season

Unlike sailing boats that typically operate in Europe from April to November, motor boats have a more limited season. The majority of motor cruising occurs between June and September, with peak activity in June and July. Other times of the year, motor yachts are less commonly seen at sea. This is because before and after this season, conditions tend to be windier and the sea becomes cooler, which is more appealing to racers on sailing yachts rather than those seeking a tranquillity on a motorboat, particularly in destinations like Croatia.

YACHTING.COM TIP: What winds and weather will you encounter in the Mediterranean over summer? Check out our guide — The 7 most common winds you'll find in the Mediterranean .

Motor boat licence

The licence needed to operate a motor boat depends on two criteria — the engine power and the area where you will be boating (whether sea or inland waters). If you want to cruise on a motor boat with an engine power of less than 4kW , then you don't need a licence. This applies to houseboats or small boats, for example. You can sail a boat with a 4kW to 20kW engine on inland waters with a VMP licence, but for the sea you'll need an international skipper's licence just as for a sailing boat and in some countries (such as Croatia), a radio licence. With engine power above 20kW , for inland sailing and on the sea, you will need a certificate of engine experience for inland sailing in addition to the VMP.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Still hesitating about getting your skipper's licence? Take a look at our 5 reasons to take a skipper's course . Then check out our sailing courses and you'll soon be sailing the seas!

How to choose a motor boat?

Motor boats have a slightly different interior layout than sailboats. The smaller ones often have only one or two cabins and it is automatically assumed that the other couple sleeps in the saloon, often in the bow. Check before you make your final booking that you will have plenty of privacy. Small motor boats are designed for a couple or small family rather than several people who don't know each other.

Route planning

When choosing a boat, take note of how much the boat consumes. You may find that the fuel will cost you the same amount of money as the charter itself in a week's sailing. Plan your itinerary in advance so you know what to expect.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Want to enjoy your cruise to the fullest and without a care in the world? Try hiring a professional skipper or hostess for your yacht. They'll take care of running the boat, cleaning and cooking, leaving you to relax and spend time with your loved ones. Just ask our sales team.

Highly renowned motor boat brands in the charter industry

Here we have picked out the most popular types of motor boats from our search portal.

Probably the most infamous brand of motorboats is Merry Fisher. The Merry Fisher 795 models are among the best sellers and the Merry Fisher 895 is a common sight cruising the coastline of Croatia. Another sought-after model is the Antares 9 OB , which is generously equipped for a comfortable boating holiday, but if you're after something bigger, the Antares 11 Fly is a great choice. The Greenline 33 or its larger sibling, the Greenline 39 , are also fantastic options.

The popular Antares 9 OB model.

Other types of motor boats

Every motor boat is unique, and there can be a wide range of vessels categorized under the name "motor boat." Let's explore some intriguing and lesser-known motor boats that have distinctive features and stand out from the norm.

Small motorboat

Charter services also offer the option to rent small motor boats, which are perfect for day trips to secluded beaches, nearby islands, or bays that are inaccessible by foot. These boats are typically compact and may not have cabins, making them suitable for short excursions. They are particularly recommended for families who have rented an apartment by the sea and wish to explore the surrounding areas by water. In many cases, these small motor boats are equipped with relatively low-powered engines, and in several countries, you may not even require a skipper's license to operate them. We recommend, for example, the Zodiac Madline 2 or the slightly larger Four Winns H210 .

You can also rent a smaller boat.

Few people can buy a superyacht. And although many more people can rent one, it is still quite expensive. A superyacht or megayacht is considered to be a boat longer than 80 feet but you'll have to hire a professional skipper as only a handful of skippers have a licence for a boat of this length. For example, we offer the superyacht Azimut Grande 27 or MY Custom Line 52 m . These can cost up to 100,000 euros to hire for a week, but the price often includes a crew to look after the boat (including the professional skipper).

Superyacht Azimut Grande 27

The main difference from the motor boats we rent at sea is that houseboats sail on freshwater streams and are designed for exploring rivers, canals, lakes, ponds, and dams. Although houseboats generally have less powerful engines, this feature often allows them to be rented without a license in most destinations. It's important to note that these houseboats are far from mundane, offering a unique and enjoyable holiday experience on calm waters. Check out these breathtaking destinations you can explore on a houseboat.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Never been on a houseboat? Take a look at our our guide — First time on a houseboat: 25 things you need to know!

Houseboat Nicols Estivale Sixto Prestige

This is what one of the most popular houseboats, the Nicols Estivale Sixto Prestige, looks like.

Power catamaran

Recently, motor catamarans or power catamarans have become more and more popular. They combine the advantages of a catamaran (two hulls, stability, space, nets to lie on,...) while offering the speed, carefree and comfort of a motor boat. Never driven a catamaran? Check out our article — First time on a catamaran: what you need to know

Body of a two-hulled power catamaran.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Wondering what are all the types of boat you can charter? You will be surprised how many there are. Check out the article — Boats for rent: what types of boats do charter companies offer?

How to operate a motor boat?

If you have sailing experience, driving a powerboat will seem like something very simple. You don't have to worry about ropes, sails, vignettes, masts or a flying jib. You simply start the boat and cruise wherever you want. Then it's the same as mooring with a sailboat.

One important aspect to be aware of when operating a motor boat is the engine trim . Engine trim refers to the adjustment of the angle between the propeller and the bottom of the boat. Ideally, the propeller should be positioned vertically downward. As a motor boat gains speed, the bow of the boat may lift, causing the propeller to partially submerge. In such cases, it is the responsibility of the captain to intervene and adjust the engine trim to ensure that the propeller is aligned vertically and not at any angle other than 90 degrees to the water surface. This adjustment is crucial to prevent the boat from jumping or unnecessarily impacting the water with the bow. By maintaining the correct trim, the boat can navigate efficiently and provide a comfortable sailing experience for all on board.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Do you know how to operate the outboard motor on a dinghy? Read our article — Dinghy and outboard motor: what you need to know .

Where to sail with a motor boat?

We've selected 3 regions where you can enjoy a fantastic time with a motorboat and take advantage of its superior speed.

Vineyards and islands off Hvar

Start your journey from Split and make your way to the enchanting island of Solta or the sun-soaked Brac. For a glimpse of Croatia's renowned beaches, don't miss out on visiting Zlatni Rat. Proceed to the captivating island of Hvar, where we suggest exploring either the lively town of Hvar itself, the more serene town of Stari Grad, or the authentically charming Vrboska. Indulge in an overnight stay at a tranquil cove on the island of Ščedro, where you can delight in snorkeling alongside majestic clams. Depending on your available time and preferences, continue your voyage to the island of Vis and discover the picturesque village of Komiza, where you can experience the novelty of standing on a buoy or by the pier. During the day, take a trip to the island of Bisevo, home to the famed Blue Spila (blue cave).

Ionian Sea (and turtles!)

Rent a boat on the Greek island of Corfu. Upon taking over the boat on Saturday, take a leisurely stroll to the charming capital, Kerkyra, where you'll be enchanted by its delightful streets and atmosphere. Next, set sail south towards the island of Paxos, renowned for its breathtaking bays. During the day, make sure to indulge in a refreshing swim in Lefkada, a destination in the western part that boasts stunning beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean. Consider spending the night in the lively bay of Vasiliki, known for its vibrant nightlife and one of Greece's most famous kebab joints. The following day, continue your journey to Kefalonia and then proceed onwards to Zakynthos, famously known as the "island of turtles." If possible, sail as far south as you can towards Zakynthos, maximizing your exploration of this captivating destination.

Italian temperament

Experience the enchanting Bay of Naples, beginning in Baiae and venturing to Ischia, where you can navigate its waters at your leisure. Along the way, explore the quaint islet of Procida. Consider Ponza as an alternative to the bustling island of Capri. If time permits, visit the renowned Positano. Carry on to the breathtaking town of Amalfi, with its cliffside houses. Above all, indulge in la dolce vita.

Whether it's a motorboat or a sailboat, I'll find you the perfect choice. Give me a call.

Denisa Nguyenová

Faq motor boats.

How to Start a Motorboat? (A Step-By-Step Guide)

Do you want to learn how to start a motorboat? Operating a motorboat can be a thrilling way to enjoy the water, but it’s important to understand the proper steps to get it going.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, from pre-start safety checks to understanding fuel and oil levels.

We’ll also discuss how to create a safe space and use appropriate safety gear.

So, if you’re ready to take the plunge, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

To start a motorboat, you’ll need to make sure it has fuel and check that all the switches are in the off position.

Next, insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the on position.

Then, press the start button and the motorboat should begin to run.

Finally, adjust the throttle to the desired speed.

Pre-Start Safety Checks

Before getting ready to start a motorboat, it is important to take the time to do a few pre-start safety checks.

This includes checking the fuel and oil levels, as well as inspecting the engine for any signs of damage or leaks.

It is essential to keep the fuel and oil levels topped up since these are necessary for the boat to run properly.

In addition, any potential problems with the engine should be identified before starting the motorboat.

This could include checking for loose wiring, corroded spark plugs, and any other signs of wear and tear.

Once these steps are complete, the engine can be started.

Locating the Ignition Key

When it comes to starting a motorboat, one of the first steps is locating the ignition key.

Depending on the make and model of the boat, the ignition key may be in a variety of locations.

It is important to familiarize yourself with the boat’s ignition system before you attempt to start it, as it will make the process much easier.

If your motorboat has a keyless ignition, there will be a special fob or keypad that you need to use to start the engine.

Once you have located the ignition key, you can then move on to the next step in the process: warming up the engine. Before starting the motorboat, it is important to allow the engine to warm up. This helps to ensure that the engine is running at peak efficiency. In order to warm up the engine, you should turn the ignition key and allow the engine to idle for several minutes before pressing the start button or turning the choke off. It is important to remember to use the appropriate safety gear when operating a motorboat, including a life jacket and other necessary equipment. With the right preparation and knowledge, anyone can start a motorboat and enjoy a day out on the water.

Starting the Engine

Starting a motorboat can be a daunting task for first-time boaters, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be easy and safe.

Before starting the motorboat, it is important to check the fuel and oil levels, as well as the engine for any signs of damage or leaks.

Once these steps are completed, the engine can be started.

This typically involves turning the ignition key and allowing the engine to warm up before pressing the start button or turning the choke off.

When starting the engine, it is important to be aware of the environment around the boat.

Check to make sure that there are no other boats, swimmers, or other obstacles in the area that could be affected by the boats wake.

It is also important to have the appropriate safety gear on board, such as a life jacket for each passenger.

Once the engine is started, it is important to allow the engine to warm up before attempting to drive the boat.

This is usually done by increasing the RPMs until the engine reaches an optimal temperature.

Depending on the boat, this can take anywhere from a few minutes to several minutes.

Once the engine has reached the right temperature, it is time to start driving.

When driving a boat, it is important to be aware of the other boats and obstacles in the area.

Always keep an eye out for other boats and follow the rules of the waterways.

It is also important to use the proper techniques for turning and stopping the boat.

This includes using the appropriate throttle, steering, and trim controls to make sure the boat is operated safely and efficiently.

Finally, when the boat is docked or parked, make sure to turn off the engine and secure the boat in its designated area.

This will ensure that the boat and its passengers are safe and secure while it is not in use.

By following these steps, anyone can start a motorboat and enjoy a day out on the water.

With the right preparation and knowledge, operating a motorboat can be an enjoyable and safe experience.

Creating a Safe Space

Starting a motorboat can be a daunting task, so it is important to create a safe environment before doing so.

This involves ensuring that all safety gear is on board and in working order, such as life jackets, flares, and other emergency equipment.

Additionally, the engine should be checked for any signs of damage or leaks before starting.

This can be done by visually inspecting the engine and checking the fuel and oil levels to make sure they are full.

It is also important to check the weather conditions and make sure the boat is in an area with calm waters and no other vessels nearby.

These steps can help create a safe environment for the motorboat and ensure a smooth and safe start.

Understanding Fuel and Oil Levels

Starting a motorboat can be a bit intimidating for those who don’t have a lot of experience with boats, but with the right preparation and guidance, it can be a safe and enjoyable experience.

One of the most important steps in starting a motorboat is to check the fuel and oil levels.

This is an important safety measure that should be done each time before starting the engine.

It is important to make sure that the fuel and oil levels are right for the type of motorboat you are using.

Different types of boats will require different types of fuel and oil, so it is important to know what type of motorboat you are using and what fuel and oil it requires.

Additionally, it is important to check the fuel and oil levels on a regular basis.

This will ensure that the engine is running properly and will help to prevent any damage or leaks.

When checking the fuel and oil levels, it is important to look for any signs of damage or leaks.

If any damage or leaks are found, it is important to take the necessary precautions to repair or replace the part in question before starting the engine.

If the fuel and oil levels are correct, then the engine can be started safely.

It is also important to remember to use the appropriate safety gear when operating a motorboat, including a life jacket and other necessary equipment.

With the right preparation and knowledge, anyone can start a motorboat and enjoy a day out on the water.

Warming Up the Engine

Warming up the engine is an important step in starting a motorboat.

This process can be done in a couple of different ways, depending on the type of engine and the temperature of the water.

For a gasoline engine, it is important to warm up the engine before starting.

This can be done by turning the ignition key and allowing the engine to idle for a few minutes, allowing the fuel to warm up.

This will allow for a smoother start-up and help the engine run more efficiently.

For a diesel engine, the water temperature should be taken into account when warming up the engine.

If the water is cold, the engine should be allowed to idle for a few minutes to allow the engine to heat up.

If the water is warm, the engine can be started immediately.

Once the engine is warmed up, the start button or choke can be turned off.

It is important to remember to use the appropriate safety gear when operating a motorboat, including a life jacket and other necessary equipment.

Using Appropriate Safety Gear

Using appropriate safety gear is an essential part of starting a motorboat.

This includes wearing a life jacket at all times, and having other necessary equipment such as a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and communication devices such as a VHF radio.

For those who are inexperienced, it is also important to take a boating safety course before attempting to start a motorboat.

This will provide the necessary information on how to safely operate a motorboat, as well as the appropriate safety gear required.

It is also important to remember that motorboat operators are responsible for the safety of any passengers they may have onboard, so it is important to ensure that everyone is wearing a life jacket and that all safety equipment is in good working order.

When out on the water, it is important to follow all laws and regulations, and to be aware of any potential hazards.

By taking the necessary steps to prepare and using the appropriate safety gear, anyone can enjoy a safe and enjoyable day out on the water.

Final Thoughts

Starting a motorboat can be a daunting task for first-time boaters, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be safe and easy.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, anyone can confidently start a motorboat and enjoy a day out on the water.

Now that you know how to start a motorboat, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge into action.

So grab your life jacket and get out on the water!

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

How to Start an Outboard Motor

Last Updated: June 22, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Jason Shackelford and by wikiHow staff writer, Dan Hickey . Jason Shackelford is the Owner of Stingray Auto Repair, a family owned and operated auto repair shop with locations in Seattle and Redmond, Washington. He has over 24 years of experience in auto repair and services, and every single technician on Jason’s team has more than 10 years of experience. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 74,275 times.

Boating is a super fun, liberating activity you can enjoy with friends and family—as long as someone knows how to get that outboard motor started. It might look like a complicated piece of machinery, but making that engine roar is actually a really straightforward, easy to learn process. That’s why we’ve put together a handy guide to starting (and stopping) an outboard motor boat with manual or electric start. If you’re ready to captain your ship and tread the high seas, keep scrolling!

Open the ventilation cap on the fuel tank.

Twist open the ventilation cap to allow air in the tank as the fuel drains.

Keep the ventilation cap closed when the boat is not in use.
When you open the cap, take an extra second to double check you have enough fuel and to check for debris in the fuel tank.
If your tank is self-ventilating, you can skip this step.

Tilt the motor into the water.

Lower the motor until the propellers are entirely submerged.

Lowering the motor ensures everyone on board’s safety in the event that the motor starts unexpectedly.
Tilting the motor down also allows fuel to get to the carburetors more easily.

Engage the kill switch on manual ignition motors.

The kill switch is usually a lanyard with a 2-pronged metal clip on it.

The motor won’t start without the kill switch since it completes the electrical circuit needed to run.
Kill switches protect you and others in the water by stopping the boat when someone falls out due to waves, hitting an object, or mishandling the boat. [4] X Research source
On electric start motors, the kill switch is the key you place in the ignition.

Squeeze the primer bulb.

Pump the bulb several times to put some fuel into the motor.

You’ll know the motor is flooded if it won’t start and you smell gas. If this happens, first wait at least 5 minutes for some fuel to flow back into the tank and try starting the motor again.
If it still won’t start, shift to neutral, hold the throttle open, and crank the engine. This is called a clear-flood start. [6] X Research source

Put the gear shift lever in the neutral position.

Always make sure you’re in neutral before you start the motor.

Turn on the choke.

Activate the choke button or lever, depending on your motor model.

Look for a switch labeled “open” and “close” if there’s a choke lever. Otherwise, the choke is a small button on the front of the motor.
Some electric start motors have a choke switch like manual ignition motors. On others, activate the automatic choke by pushing the key deeper into the ignition.
If the engine is still warm, you may not need the choke to get started unless the engine won’t start after a few pulls of the starter cord.

Start the ignition.

Pull the starter cord or turn the key to turn on the motor.

Turn off the choke.

If you have an automatic choke on an electric start motor, release the key into its normal position to turn off the choke. [11] X Research source
Once the choke is off and the motor’s running, you’re ready to cruise!

Shift forward or backward to drive the boat.

Switch the gear forward to cruise or backward to maneuver out of a slip.

If your boat has a steering wheel, direct the boat just like a car. If it has a tiller, remember that pushing it left will move you to the right and vice versa.
Once you’re cruising, adjust the trim to raise or lower the bow of the boat as desired.

Aim the boat in the direction you want to stop.

Point the bow of the boat toward your destination to begin stopping.

There’s no way to brake, but the boat will slow very rapidly once you shift to neutral or cut the engine.

Shift back to neutral.

Push or twist your gear shift to neutral to stop moving.

Try not to switch directly between forward to backward gears, as this might cause mechanical damage to your boat.

Turn off the motor.

Once you’re in your final position, switch the motor off.

Close the ventilation cap and tilt the motor up.

Follow these steps if you’re docking or finished boating for the day.

Community Q&A

Follow these steps for both 2-stroke and 4-stroke motors. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
To check on your motor after a long season of boat storage, try starting your motor out of water to test it before you drive. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Maintain your outboard motor during boating and storage seasons for the smoothest starts and efficiency. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

↑ https://goneoutdoors.com/hook-up-fuel-tank-outboard-motor-12214577.html
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-A7Q65PMn3g
↑ https://www.discoverboating.com/resources/how-to-drive-a-boat
↑ https://www.takemefishing.org/blog/may-2021/3-reasons-for-a-boat-kill-switch/
↑ https://goneoutdoors.com/keep-prime-outboard-motor-10011554.html
↑ https://goneoutdoors.com/start-flooded-outboard-motor-7805507.html
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-j9358PHX3k
↑ https://www.boatsafe.com/want-charge/
↑ https://pontoonopedia.com/pontoon-boat-motor-wont-start/
↑ https://www.boatsafe.com/want-charge/

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Motor boats for beginners: Everything you need to know

Isobel Smith

Looking to get into motor boats? Discover the options available that’ll see you out on the water in no time

Speed, comfort and style – these are the mantras of motor boat fans. You can go from flying through the waves at 35 knots to lying on a sunpad at some remote anchorage, drink in hand, and still make it home in time for tea.

Motor boats are a great way to get out on the water and it’s fairly easy to pick up the basics. Read our guide to find out more…

Boat training

The first step to enjoying motor boats is taking the necessary boat training that’ll teach you everything you need to know about boat handling.

The RYA has a number of courses on offer , ranging from complete beginners, all the way through to those looking to test their motor boat skills in more demanding conditions.

The RYA’s level 1 course is a great place to start for a complete beginner, but if you have some experience already, then taking the RYA level 2 course may be a better option. Either course is no longer than two days, with level 1 costing around £200 and level 2 around £340.

There are hundreds of RYA training centres throughout the UK that offer the necessary training and you can use the RYA’s online tool to find your nearest venue .

Hiring motor boats

Once you’ve developed a love of boating, it’s not surprising that you’ll want to spend more and more time out on the water. Hiring a boat is a commitment-free way to enjoy the sport without costs such as maintenance and mooring fees.

Many centres across the UK will allow you to hire a small RIB for either a few hours or up to a week. You can expect to pay up to £50 per hour for motor boat hire, depending on the make and model and around £140 for a full day.

Buying a boat

Many people dream of buying a motor boat and depending on what you’re looking for, you can pick up some models of smaller boats on the market for just a few thousand pounds.

Take a look at an online brokerage site to see average prices and search MBY’s boat reviews to find a model that suits your needs. If you’re not sure which boat would be best for your needs you can ask our motor boat forum community for recommendations.

Boat membership

Boat membership schemes are a great alternative to owning a boat as you can get experience out on the water without the financial commitment. All you have to do is pay a joining fee and then a fixed monthly sum to use a boat.

The majority of boats involved in boat memberships will have one owner member and up to seven memberships per boat. Once signed up, you can use an online calendar to book your time on board.

There are three different types of membership boating: single, flexible and crewed. If you want to use the same boat then single boat membership is a good option, while flexible gives you the chance to skipper a boat of your choice when you want.

On a crewed membership scheme you can join a skippered boat with similar people for 10 days throughout the year or make private crewing arrangements.

Prices will vary but RIBs will set you back around £300 per month, while a 40ft sportscruiser could cost you up to £1,000 a month, in addition to fuel costs.

Boat sharing

Another alternative is shared boat ownership , whereby you share the purchase and running costs of a vessel with others, making it significantly cheaper than buying a motor boat outright on your own.

The boat is managed for you so you can focus on being out on the water rather than administration and maintenance.

Chartering motor boats

Chartering a yacht is essentially hiring a boat for a fixed period of time in a specific location, ranging from exotic destinations halfway across the world to holiday spots in UK waters.

Countries such as Greece, Turkey and Croatia are extremely popular charter destinations but there are hundreds to choose from.

Depending on the size of boat, location and whether your charter includes crew you can pay anything from £500 pp upwards.

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Right-of-Way Rules for Boaters

By Jeff Hemmel
April 20, 2022

There is no right of way on the water. Every boater is obligated to do what is required to avoid collision. In any meeting of boats, one is deemed the stand-on vessel and the other the give-way vessel. The rules of the road explain the situation more completely and can be learned in a boating safety course. This article serves as a refresher and a reminder on how to handle some common meeting scenarios.

While more common in a channel or narrow pass, head-to-head meetings can happen anywhere on the water. When encountering an oncoming boat head-on, the rule is simple: Each boat is a give-way or burdened vessel and should stay to its right, altering course to starboard and allowing each craft to pass to the port (left) side of the other boat.

If the other boat is to your starboard (right), it’s considered the stand-on or privileged vessel and is obligated to maintain course and speed. Your boat is the give-way vessel and is obligated to slow or alter course to pass behind it, ideally. If the boat intersecting your path is to port (left), it’s the give-way vessel. It’s obligated to yield while you’re obligated to maintain course and speed.

When overtaking another boat, keep in mind that the other boat is the stand-on vessel and yours is the give-way vessel. Your first move? Determine to which side of that craft is the safest to pass. Consider oncoming traffic, waterway markers, obstacles, or even bends in the channel. Once you have a clear path with good forward visibility, increase your speed enough so that you can safely overtake the other vessel, giving the craft a wide berth.

Encountering Kayaks, Sailboats, Etc.

Some vessels will almost always be the stand-on boat, and you must yield no matter the scenario, unless doing so will create an unsafe situation. Typically, this list includes paddlecraft and sailboats not under power, but it also includes larger craft, like ships or freighters. Realize these craft are not as maneuverable as most powerboats and, as such, the powerboat is deemed the give-way vessel.

When the Other Guy Doesn’t Know the Rules

No matter if you are the stand-on or give-way vessel, always be prepared in case the other boater doesn’t respond as you expect. Operate defensively, and be ready to yield, slow speed or change course to avoid any potentially dangerous situation. A good tip? Give other boaters plenty of space—100 feet or more—to allow enough time and distance to properly react and avoid an accident.

Know Your Colors

Do you know how to handle these scenarios at night, when you can’t see another boat, let alone determine its direction? Know your colors. Boats are required to display a green light to starboard (right) and a red light to port (left) at their bow, and most boats must display a single all-around white light at the stern. This combination of lights will help you determine which direction a boat is moving and if it’s likely to cross your path.

More: Boating Safety , How-To , May 2022 , Seamanship

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Boater education prevents accidents and saves lives. Whether or not their state requires it, all boaters have a responsibility to learn about boat operation, communications, navigation, and life-saving techniques before taking to the water. Statistics bear out what logic suggests—those without boater education put themselves and others at risk.

Of the approximately 7,700 accidents reported each year, the U.S. Coast Guard found that nearly 70 percent are caused by operator error as opposed to boat or environmental factors. (Estimates suggest less than 10% of minor boating accidents are reported.) Not only do incompetent boaters cause more accidents, the accidents they cause are more severe. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), boating fatalities are second only to highway fatalities. Sadly, more than 80 percent of recreational boat operators involved in fatal boating accidents have not taken any type of boater education course. An untrained boater would likely not know the proper steps to take in a life-threatening situation, such as capsizing/man overboard, fire, sinking/flooding, or collision.

The lack of education in personal watercraft operators is a cause for concern as well; a 1997 study estimated that 84% of PWC operators (including renters) had received no boating instruction whatsoever. PWC injuries account for 36% of all reported boating injuries.

With 12.7 million boats registered in the U.S., Steve Hall, president of the National State Boating Law Administrators and boating law administrator for Rhode Island recognizes, "The waterways are increasingly more congested and operators must know the rules of the water to have a safe and enjoyable day boating. If boaters would learn and practice safe boating tactics, the number of accidents would be greatly reduced."

Many organizations offer a variety of boater education courses in a variety of formats (including on-line, video, and classroom). Here are just a few:

In the 1990s, the NTSB placed boating safety on its "10 Most Wanted List" for safety improvements, and put forth several recommendations focused on reducing the number and severity of boating accidents. The recommendations regarding education included implementing minimum standards for demonstrating operator knowledge of safety boating rules and skills, and requiring PWC rental businesses to provide safety instruction training to customers.

In the past few years, numerous states have enacted legislation along these lines, and more changes are in the works. Yet still, many states have no educational requirements for boaters. If there are educational standards and age limits for driving an automobile and piloting a plane, why not have standards for operating a boat?

State Boating Requirements/Laws

The purpose of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) is to summarize the information that was gathered in research of states’ boating laws.

NASBLA has developed a number of State Law Dashboards, .

To view an overview of the boating education requirements for all states, .

State	Who is required to complete a boating education course
Alabama	Anyone born after April 28, 1956.
Alaska	No requirement.
Arizona	No requirement.
Arkansas	Anyone born on or after January 1, 1986.
California	As of January 1, 2022, California law requires all boaters 45 years of age or younger to carry the California Boater Card. All boaters regardless of age are required to obtain the card by 2025.
Colorado	Persons 14 or 15 years of age who want to operate a motorboat (including PWCs). No one under the age of 14 can operate a motorboat (including PWCs).
Connecticut	Residents who wish to operate a motorized vesssel.
Delaware	Anyone born on or after January 1, 1978.
District of Columbia	All vessel operators are required to have a BS Certificate or there is a passenger at least 18 years of age on board with an approved BS Certificate.
Florida	Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who operates a vessel powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or greater (including PWCs).
Georgia	Anyone born after January 1, 1998.
Hawaii	Everyone who operates a powed vessel.
Idaho	People renting a PWC, boat operators convicted of OUI, repeat offenders of boating laws.
Illinois	Persons born on or after January 1, 1998, may operate a vessel powered by a motor of more than 10 horsepower (hp) if they have a valid Boating Safety Certificate accepted by the Department of Natural Resources. Persons at least 10 years old but less than 12 years old may operate a motorized vessel with more than 10 hp, including a PWC, only if they are accompanied by and under the direct control of a parent, a guardian, or a person at least 18 years old designated by the parent or guardian. Persons at least 12 years old but less than 18 years old may operate a motorized vessel with more than 10 horsepower, including a PWC, only if: Boating Safety Certificate accepted by the Department of Natural Resources
Indiana	All vessel operators are required to possess a valid driver's license with exception of 15 year olds who have taken and passed a boater education course and possesses an Indiana Indentification card.
Iowa	12 through 17 year olds who operate a motorboat over 10 h.p. or a PWC.
Kansas	Anyone born on or after January 1, 1989 and under 21 years of age regardless of date of birth.
Kentucky	Safe Boating Certification is mandatory for children from 12 through 17 years old.
Louisiana	Under the age of 16.
Maine	16 and 17 year olds who will operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC).
Maryland	Anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 who is operating a motorized vessel on MD waters must have a valid certificate of boating safety education.
Massachusetts	Any person of at least 12 years of age and less than 16 years of age, operating a motorboat without adult supervision. PWC users 16 and 17 years of age. (PWCs cannot be operated by youth less than 16 years of age).
Michigan	Those less than 12 years of age: May operate a boat powered by a motor of no more than 6 horsepower (hp) legally without restrictions. May operate a boat powered by a motor of more than 6 hp but no more than 35 hp legally only if they are directly supervised on board by a person at least 16 years of age. May not operate a boat powered by a motor of more than 35 hp legally under any conditions. Those 12 to 15 years of age: May operate a boat powered by a motor of no more than 6 hp legally without restrictions. May operate a boat powered by a motor of more than 6 hp legally only if they: Have passed a boating safety course approved by the Department of Natural Resources and have on board their boating safety certificate or ... Are accompanied on board by a person at least 16 years of age.
Minnesota	Ages 12 - 17 to operate a motorboat over 25 hp.
Mississippi	Persons born after June 30, 1980.
Missouri	Any person born after January 1, 1984.
Montana	Youth 13 and 14 years of age must either complete a boating education course or be accompanied by an adult in order to operate a motorboat or PWC with a motor greater than 10 horsepower.
Nebraska	All motorboat operators 14 to 18.
Nevada	Persons born on or after January 1, 1983 will be required to complete an approved boater education course. This applies only to those operating a vessel with a motor larger than 15 hp on Nevada's interstate waters.
New Hampshire	Everyone 16 years of age or older operating a vessel over 25 horsepower.
New Jersey	All power vessel operators, regardless of DOB.
New Mexico	Those born on or after January 1, 1989.
New York	Motorboats - Any individuals born on or after 5/1/96 are now required to successfully complete an approved course in boater education in order to operate a motorboat. Approved courses include those offered by NYS Parks, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or the U.S. Power Squadron. Individuals less than 10 years of age may not take this course of instruction. Personal Watercraft - Operators may not operate a Personal Watercraft (JetSki, SeaDoo, etc.) unless they are at least 14 years of age and hold a boater safety certificate issued by State Parks, the USCG Auxiliary or the US Power Squadron for having completed a an 8-hour classroom based course of instruction. A person without a safety certificate may operate a PWC when accompanied by someone over 18 years of age who is the holder of a boater safety certificate. For the purposes of this section, "accompanied" shall mean upon the same PWC.
North Carolina	PWC operators between 14 and 16 years of age if they want to operate on their own .
North Dakota	No person of twelve through fifteen years of age may operate a motorboat (includes personal watercraft, i.e. Jet skis, etc.) propelled by over a ten horsepower motor unless the operator is accompanied by a person eighteen years of age or older or the operator has taken and passed a boating course approved by the Department.
Ohio	Anyone born on or after January 1, 1982 who operates a powerboat grater than 10 horsepower.
Oklahoma	All persons from 12 to less than 16 years of age.
Oregon	Boaters 12 and older operating a motorboat greater than 10 horsepower.
Pennsylvania	Operators born on or after January 1, 1982 to operate motorboats greater than 25 horsepower and all operators of PWC.
Puerto Rico	Anyone born after July 1, 1972.
Rhode Island	All PWC operators and anyone born after January 1, 1986 operating a vessel powered by an engine of ten (10) or more horsepower.
South Carolina	Persons younger than 16 years of age that operate a boat powered by 15 horsepower engine or greater by themselves.
South Dakota	No requirement
Tennessee	TN resident born after January 1, 1989 must pass a proctored exam.
Texas	Operators between ages 13-17 years.
Utah	Personal Watercraft operators 12 through 17 years old.
Vermont	Any person born on or after January 1, 1974.
Virginia	Beginning July 1, 2009 compliance with boating safety education will be phased in according to age category.
Virgin Islands	No requirement.
Washington	Operators of motorboats with 15 horsepower or greater, must be 12 years of age or older. Is being phased in beginning January 2008 starting with 12 to 20 year olds and increasing age each year until fully implemented in 2014.
West Virginia	Anyone born after December 31, 1986.
Wisconsin	Anyone born on or after January 1, 1989 and who is at least 16 years old.
Wyoming	No requirement.

Requirements for Foreign Recreational Boaters in Canadian Waters

Boating safety should be a concern for everyone on the water. Regardless of whether or not your state requires boater education, regardless of whether you're a boat owner or are just "along for the ride", education in boat operation, navigation, and life-saving skills is important in both preventing accidents, and minimizing them if they occur.

Other Boat Education Resources:

Navigation vs. Electronics
Ranges and Transits

©American Sailing 2024

Paddle Board

Outboard Boat Motor Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Walking through the boat dealership is an exciting experience. From bay boats to bowriders, cabin cruisers, and yachts, dozens of boat models are available to suit any pastime out on the water, from fishing to watersports.

While most of us focus on the boat we like, few new owners take the same amount of time selecting the right motor for their vessel. The outboard engine is the most common propulsion system for smaller watercraft up to 40-feet.

The outboard sits outside of the boat, hanging from the transom, which is the cross-section at the vessel’s stern. Outboard motors are available for leading manufacturing brands like Honda, Yamaha, and others. They come in various capacities to suit the size of your boat and your activities out on the water.

Choosing the right outboard motor for your boat is essential to getting the most value from your boating experience.

If you choose a low-powered motor, you’re not going to have the performance you need for watersports of navigating rough waters. Too high a capacity means that your boat won’t be able to enjoy the full operating potential of the engine.

We decided to put together this post to give you everything you need to know about choosing the right outboard motor for your boat.

Two-Stroke or Four-Stroke – Which Is the Better Choice?

Outboard motors are available in two-stroke and four-stroke models. The industry seems to agree that the four-stroke motor is the better choice for any boat. However, if we dig into the tech behind these engine configurations, the consensus seems to disappear, and there are several advantages to fitting your vessel with a two-stroke motor.

With a four-stroke motor, you’re getting a similar design to what you expect in a car engine. The engines operate on gasoline, with oil circulating through the system to lubricate the working parts motor.

Two-stroke motors operate on a blend of gasoline and oil, feeding the oil/gas fuel mixture through the carburetor or injectors into the cylinders through intake valves. Carb-based models are somewhat inefficient, and up to 30% of the fuel and oil mix entering the engine escapes unburned.

As a result, manufacturers moved towards direct fuel injection systems to enhance the efficiency of these engines. These systems spray the fuel into the combustion chamber using precision injection timing, with the piton covering the exhaust valve to prevent any fuel escape, improving the motor’s efficiency.

The four strokes per engine cycle, exhaust, and intake occur separately with four-stroke motors. DFI systems tend to be markedly more efficient than two-strokes due to the improved cycling of the pistons and computer management over the valves.

However, it’s important to note that the improvements in fuel injection and engine technology mean that the new generation of two-strokes is almost as efficient and quiet as four-stroke motors.

An example is the Evinrude E-TEC two-stroke DFI motor. This engine injects fuel at twice the speed of standard models, adjusting fuel delivery and the oil-gas mixture required by the onboard engine management system.

The result is an engine with all the power and performance of a four-stroke while running far quieter than traditional two-strokes.

The general reason behind using a two-stroke is that it’s more affordable than the four-stroke, and it offers more power due to the two-piston cycles per engine cycle. However, recent tech developments on four-strokes improve the power and performance of the four-stroke while maintaining efficiency and quiet-running.

As a result, the decision between choosing a two-stroke or four-stroke motor is now a function of what you want to do with the boat and your budget. We all want a four-stroke, but some of us might not have the extra money for it.

With modern DFI two-stroke engines, you get a motor that offers all the performance and efficiency of a four-stroke, with the speed and power you need for powerboating and watersports.

Key takeaways

Two-stroke DFI engines offer you a lighter motor with almost the same efficiency and quiet-running capability as a four-stroke.
While four strokes are generally quieter, the DFI two-stroke advancements mean that they run at nearly the same decibel output.
Two-strokes provide the motor with a better holeshot, but four-strokes are closing the gap to gain the same power and performance as DFI two-strokes.

Buying Your Outboard Motor – New or Used?

Like buying a car, you have options to choose a new motor or buy pre-owned engines. When you’re at the dealership, it’s tempting just to add a new motor to your purchase, but you might find a pre-owned motor for half the price, offering you the same performance and service life as a new engine.

However, when you’re buying pre-owned motors, you’ll need to know what you’re looking at when assessing the engine.

If you don’t have any mechanical experience working on boat motors, we suggest you bring along a qualified and experienced mechanic to the viewing. They’ll assess the condition of the engine before you close the deal.

Calculating Outboard Motor Capacity for Your Boat

If you have a 40-foot cabin cruiser, your motor capacity is going to be much higher than for a 16-foot bowrider. So, how do you choose the right motor capacity for your vessel? The sales agent will likely recommend the right motor for your boat if you’re buying from the dealership.

However, if you’re searching on the used market, you’re going to need to do a quick calculation to figure out the right motor capacity for your vessel.

You’ll need to start the calculation by converting the vessel’s weight from tons to pounds.

So, if your bowrider has a dry weight of 1.1-tons, it works out to 2,500-lbs.

For the average performance model boat, like a center console or a bowrider, you’re going to need approximately one horsepower (HP) for 25 to 40-lbs of weight.

Take the boat’s weight in pounds and divide it by 200 (for a 200-HP engine). So, for our 2,500-lbs boat, we get approximately 12.5-lbs of horsepower per pound with a 200-HP engine.

2,500 divided by 125 is 20-HP per pound, and the lower the figure, the higher the engine’s performance. So, dividing 2,500 by 300 gives us 8.33 Hp-p/lb, making for a fast boat that’s ideal for watersports and speed boating.

Why Should I Choose a Larger Outboard Engine?

The motor capacity defines the boat’s power and its performance on the water. If you’re facing a choice between an engine that’s slightly under the recommended capacity or slightly over, we recommend going with the higher power to avoid disappointment out on the water, especially if you’re into watersports or speed boating.

If you have a pontoon boat or slow-moving cruising vessel, then the lower capacity is the better choice as these models do not have the design for high-speed operation. Overall, we recommend going with the higher power if you enjoy watersports and offshore fishing and lower capacity option for inland water bodies and cruiser boats.

What are the Top Features to Look for In an Outboard Motor?

After calculating the right motor capacity of your boat, it’s time to assess the engine’s features. Here’s what you need to look for when choosing the right motor for your vessel.

Electronic Ignition

Ripcords are so 1990s. Today, all the leading motor models come with an electronic start. You either turn a key or push a button and the motor springs to life, with no ripcords required.

When the water is rough, and you need a fast start, electronic ignition can mean the difference between taking water onboard or making a quick escape from the weather conditions.

Power Tilting

Choose a motor offering you power tilting of the engine. This feature electronically lifts the propellers out of the water by tilting the motor forward at the push of a button.

It’s a great feature for fishing in shallow waters to stop the props from agitating the sediment on the bottom, and it also helps with lifting the motor when you’re launching or trailering the vessel.

Power Thrust

This feature is like a “nitrous-oxide canister” in a sports car. It increases a temporary surge of power to the motor to combat strong currents and winds out on the water. The thrust increases the forward propulsion by up to 15% and the reverse propulsion by 60%.

The power thrust also assists with the maneuverability and steering of the boat, making it easy to reach top speeds while maintaining full control of the vessel in demanding water conditions.

Is A Dual Outboard Setup the Best Choice?

Take a drive through the marina, and you’ll see boats with single, double, or even triple outboard motor configurations.

Typically, these engines feature on boats that take to deep water for sports fishing trips. In most cases, the captain won’t use two or three motors simultaneously; they keep the auxiliary motors as a backup in case of mechanical failure of the primary engine while they are out at sea.

Installing a dual-motor configuration to your boat also makes docking that much easier. The propellers revolve in separate directions, allowing for the easy repositioning of the vessel as you approach the dock or slip.

However, if you install dual or triple motors to your boat, it will double or triple the expenditure you make on the motor purchase. You’ll have to decide if the addition of extra engines offers you enough value to justify the increase in your budget.

If you have the budget, a twin outboard setup will always be the optimal choice for most boating applications. It’s important to note that a dual or triple configuration is only useful against mechanical failure if each motor has an independent fuel and power system.

You might find that it’s way more affordable to get a single motor and just upgrade your marine radio system so you can call for rescue if the engine breaks down while you’re out at sea.

Do I Need High-Octane Fuel for the Outboard Motor?

As high-compression motors arrived in the boating industry, early models would experience the fuel combusting too early in the combustion cycle. This pre-ignition problem, otherwise known as “spark knock,” was an irritating noise, and it also damaged the combustion chamber, scarring the cylinder walls and damaging the valve seats.

As a result, manufacturers included additives in fuel to slow the ignition until the spark plug was ready to ignite the fuel. So, today’s modern engines now operate better with high-octane performance fuels, allowing them to handle the higher compression rate.

However, the reality is that using high-octane fuel on your outboard motor isn’t the best choice – for your wallet. These high-octane fuels don’t add any additional performance to the outboard motor, and you’ll get the same power out of using 87-octane as you would with other grades on the 90s.

With the cost of fuel rising in the United States and some states seeing prices at over $4 a gallon, using a lower octane fuel will save you hundreds of dollars over the year.

How Do I Select the Right Propeller for My Outboard?

You can think of the propeller on your boat like the tires on your car; it’s where the “rubber meets the road” or, in our case, where the “steel meets the water.” Props are similar to tires in that they come in different designs for different purposes out on the water.

You have dedicated props for performance speed racing, watersports like wakeboarding, and increasing economy. If you’re purchasing your new motor for the dealer, ask them about the prop installed on the engine and the various prop options available.

Most dealers install efficient, mid-range performance props on their motors. So, if you’re buying a boat specifically for watersports, this prop might not be the best option for the task. However, you can negotiate with the dealer, and they’ll likely install any type of performance prop you want on the engine.

Propeller Basics

Fortunately, understanding propeller technology isn’t rocket science. Props change the pitch and diameter of the blades to suit different applications in the water. As you already guessed, the diameter refers to the size of the prop.

The pitch refers to the theoretical distance the prop needs to travel in a complete revolution, provided there is no slippage. The reason why you need to select the right prop for your boat comes down to the fact that motor manufacturers rate an engine’s horsepower at specific RPMs, setting the rpm range for the motor’s top-end operation.

However, the motor can only reach this top-end range if it has the right prop suited to the task. If the prop permits the engine to over-rev, you risk damage to the motor due to the high-revs creating a faster rate of wear and tear on the motor components.

Conversely, if the prop is too large, then the motor will struggle to reach top-end rpm ranges, creating another set of challenges for the engine that might damage its internal components.

Picking the right pop pitch ensures you get the best performance from the engine while protecting the internal components from damage. To test the prop., you’ll need to take the boat out onto the water and open the throttle to the full position.

When your engine runs over the max-rpm range, back off the throttle, reduce speed until the rpm gauge drops to the suggested rpm range recommended by the manufacturer. When you return to shore, check the pitch of the props.

You should have a drop of 200-rpm for each degree of increase in the pitch. Cupped props can reduce rotation by up to 200-rpm. Ask your dealer if they allow you to test the prop. Most dealers will agree, provided you return it to them undamaged.

As long as the propeller reaches the top-end range, but doesn’t exceed the max-rpm value, delivering wide-open RPMs to the bottom of the recommended range provides you with better performance in holeshots. Props offering RPMs toward the top-end of the range generate higher top-end speed.

What to Know About Boat Engine Propellers

The condition of the propeller is more important than the type of prop installed on the boat. Damaged propellers can cause problems with the normal operation of the engine, creating stress in the motor components that cause damage.

We recommend going with stainless steel propellers as they offer you the truest running performance and high strength levels. Aluminum is a cheaper material, sacrificing itself to provide the lower unit better protection.

Four-blade props beat three-blade models in the time it takes to reach planing speeds, midrange speeds, and they offer you better low-speed handling.

Easy Outboard Engine Maintenance Tips

When the motor isn’t in use, keep the fuel tank topped to reduce the chances of condensation building on the inside of the tank. If water gets into the engine system, it will require you to bleed the system to get the motor to start.

Add fuel stabilizer additives to the fuel tank every time your refuel. It’s critical to do this with ethanol-based fuels to prevent separation and fouling of the fuel system.
Inspect your propellers after each trip for damage, dings, pocking, and wear.
Inspect the hoses and fittings to ensure there are no leaks.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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What Size Outboard Motor for What Size Boat? (Boat Horsepower Chart)

Once you buy a boat you want, it is time to determine what size outboard motor for what size boat. As you can guess, there is no magic formula for estimating it precisely, but you can get rough numbers when you check relevant information.

You should start with a boat type , a maximum passenger number, and the equipment weight you plan to carry. Then, you can determine the maximum horsepower recommended for your vessel. Finally, think about 2-strokes and 4-stroke motor options, right propeller size , and fuel type. Sounds complicated? Let’s make it easier!

Table of Contents

Motor Size Matters

Things to consider when selecting an outboard boat engine, ways of pair an outboard motor with your boat size.

Yes, an engine size matters , and it is crucial to pair it with an adequate boat size to let it run smoothly.

Bigger motors with higher horsepower offer numerous benefits for comfortable boating, such as:

You can sail at high speed
A more sizable engine provides better handling, particularly when sailing at midrange speeds
It makes water sports cozier
You can count on better time maneuvering
Such an engine will give you better control and provide more secure sailing in harsh weather condition
Surprisingly, a motor with a bigger fuel tank uses less fuel

Downsides of a small engine

A too-small engine typically has difficulty powering a bigger boat so it will spend more fuel than a bigger model. Another problem is sailing with more passengers and equipment since extra load requires a motor with more horsepower.

Therefore, you should check the max HP a boat can handle before purchasing. That rating will show you a top weight it can carry, and you can risk uncomfortable and unsafe sailing, plus possible Coast Guard fines when exceeding it.



18 feet (5.5 m)	1,000 pounds (454 kg)	1 to 2 HP
20 feet (6 m)	2,000 pounds (907 kg)	4 HP
22 feet (6.7 m)	3,000 pounds (1,360 kg)	6 HP
24 feet (7.3 m)	4,000 pounds (1,815 kg)	8 HP
25 feet (7.6 m)	5,000 pounds (2,278 kg)	9 HP
26 feet (7.9 m)	6,000 pounds (2,720 kg)	11 HP
27 feet (8.2 m)	7,000 pounds (3,175 kg)	13 HP
28 feet (8.5 m)	8,000 pounds (3,629 kg)	15 HP
30 feet (9 m)	10,000 pounds (4,536 kg)	18 HP
32 feet (9.75 m)	12,000 pounds (5,443 kg)	22 HP
36 feet (11 m)	15,000 pounds (6,804 kg)	28 HP
40 feet (12.2 m)	18,000 pounds (8,165 kg)	34 HP

The vessel horsepower ranges from 2.5 to 1,000+ HP for contemporary outboard motors . You should pick out the most powerful one your boat can handle to provide smooth and comfy sailing.

Horsepower is used to measure the engine power. On average, your vessel will need 5 HP per 2,200 pounds (1,000 kg) its weight. Small boats shouldn’t use more than 75% to 80% of the max HP because of the possibility of rough waters and headwinds while sailing.

Only that way, you can count on enough thrust to drive as desire. You should think about a few things when determining how much horsepower your boat needs, including:

Manufacturer limits

Manufacturers’ recommendation always shows a maximum passengers number and cargo weight your boat can carry. You can also find the absolute max boat HP in the manual.

If you have a boat built after 1972, you can find a capacity plate with this information inside the transom. Older vessels, home-built models, and those made overseas typically don’t have that plate.

However, you can contact the manufacturer or look for their manuals online to discover limitations and recommendations for your boat.

Horsepower-to-weight ratio

The only way to precisely determine your boat’s necessary horsepower is to consider its weight. You can calculate this ratio in horsepower per pound or vice versa.

HP/boat weight = required horsepower per 1 pound (0.45 kg)

boat weight/HP = number of pounds per horsepower

Let’s say you have a boat weighing 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) with an engine of 300 HP. The calculation will look like:

5,000 pounds / 300 HP = 16.6 pounds (7.5 kg) per horsepower
300 HP / 5,000 pounds = 0.06 HP per 1 pound (0.45 kg)

You should do the math to match the desired outboard engine with your boat size correctly. The result will show how fast your boat will go since its speed will be higher when these numbers are lower.

Horsepower your boat needs will also depend on its use. Any additional equipment weight or pulling water skiers behind the vessel increase the power it needs.

Number of passengers

In this case, the rule is simple. Your boat engine will work properly only when it carries 25 to 40 pounds (11.5 – 18 kg) per horsepower.

Once you have this information, you can check the boat weight and add the total weight of the passengers you plan to host on it. Then, you can effortlessly determine engine HP that matches your boat.

Fuel efficiency

As you can guess, the motor HP impacts the boat’s fuel efficiency, but that doesn’t mean a higher-horsepower engine necessarily consumes more fuel.

For instance, your motor with lower HP will use more gas at full throttle than the one with higher HP running with less throttle.

Engine type

Both 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines are good options. You should choose one or another, depending on the feature crucial for you.

The rule of thumb is that 2-stroke motors are lighter and less expensive, while 4-stroke models with the same power are quieter. However, these differences are diminishing nowadays.

Engine weight

One of the vital things is to match the outboard engine weight and boat size . That way, you will ensure sufficient power for the desired speed without jeopardizing safety and maneuverability.

Most 2 to 10 HP outboard engines weigh 35 to 90 pounds (16 – 41 kg). On the other hand, you should count on 100 to 160 pounds (45.5 – 72.5 kg) for a 20 to 30 HP motor. In this case, you can have a problem carrying a too heavy engine around.

Required speed

The rule of thumb is that your boat needs more power to reach a higher speed. The equation says that 1 HP can move 40 pounds (18 kg) of boat weight at 20 mph (32.2 km/h). According to that, you can calculate that your boat weighing 2,000 pounds (907 kg) needs 50 HP to reach the speed of 20 mph (32.2 km/h).

Federal regulations

In the US, it is illegal to overpower your boat. The Code of Federal Regulations clearly defines vessel overpowering, so you should check it before getting into a situation to break federal law.

You should know that your boat’s horsepower directly affects its insurance , and models with higher HP typically has higher premium costs. Keep in mind that the insurance company won’t cover a boat with an upgraded engine that exceeds the max HP recommended by the manufacturer.

Ways of Pair an Outboard Motor with Your Boat Size

The best way to properly pair an engine with a boat of a particular size is to determine its horsepower.

2 to 3.6 HP engine

These small, less than 40 pounds (18 kg) weight, 2-stroke outboard engines are an excellent option for portable boats, like:

Inflatable boats
Small pontoons
Small sailboats

They can push small boats at 5 to 9.5 mph (8 – 15 km/h), depending on weather conditions, current, as well as boat weight and design.

5 to 6 HP engine

This horsepower range is ideal for boats weighing 8 to 11.5 pounds (18 – 25 kg), including:

12 feet (3.65 m) long inflatable boats
Portable folding boats
Large canoes
8 to 12 feet (2.5 – 3.65 m) long inflatable and dinghy boats

Such an engine can propel your vessel with one person at 10 to 17.5 mph (16 – 28 km/h).

8 to 9.8 HP engine

You should pick out this small but powerful 11.5 to 20.5 pounds (25 – 45 kg) heavy outboard engine for your:

10 to 14 feet (3 – 4.5 m) long inflatable and aluminum boats
Large portable folding boat and sturdy canoe
Up to 14 feet (4.5 m) long light fiberglass boats

An outboard motor in this range is an excellent option for propelling a boat carrying a light load and two people at 9.5 to 17.5 mph (15 – 28 km/h).

15 to 25 HP engine

Although powerful, these 16.5 to 23.5 pounds (36 – 52 kg) heavy 4-stroke outboard engines are still in a small outboard HP class. They are an excellent choice for:

10 to 14 feet (3 – 4.5 m) long inflatable boat
12 to 16 feet (3.65 – 5 m) long Jon boat , fiberglass boat , and aluminum fishing boat

These smooth-running engines can propel most boats to 25 mph (40 km/h) when carrying several people and heavy loads.

Whatever boat type you have, you should buy the smallest possible outboard engine that can allow a max hull speed with 90% of the revolutions per minute. Unless you want a higher-speed boat , you can use your 20 HP engine for twenty years and get an excellent fuel economy.

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Look I’m getting confused. I’m looking at 20 to 21 foot fiberglass star craft. My weight is around 260 my girl is around180. The dealers are trying to sell me a 150 yamaha. A northern dealer is trying to sell me a 20 ft boat with a 70 hp yamaha. The price is nice for the 70 hp but I’m not shore that it’s good for that boat. Help.

The lower the “hp/lb” value, the faster the boat. For example, you have a 3,000-pound boat with a 200-horsepower outboard motor. A pound will correspond to 0.067 HP.

The weight boat is one of the variables to consider when finding the maximum horsepower. Calculating the ratio between horsepower and weight is straightforward. You only need your boat’s weight and its boat HP rating.

Seeing a Motorboat Approaching on Your Right: Navigational Guide and Safety Tips

by Laura Rodriguez
November 3, 2023

When you’re out on the water, enjoying a day of boating, it’s essential to understand and follow the rules of navigation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. One common situation that boaters encounter is when a motorboat approaches on their right side. Knowing how to respond in such situations is crucial for maintaining safety and avoiding collisions.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the necessary actions and best practices to take when you see a motorboat approaching on your right. We’ll also address specific scenarios, such as encounters in darkness or reduced visibility and encounters with sailboats. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to navigate such situations confidently and make informed decisions on the water.

So, fasten your life jacket, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the navigational rules and safety tips that will help you navigate encounters with motorboats approaching on your right.

When a Motorboat Comes Cruising on Your Right: Keep Cool and Follow the Rule

Navigating the open waters can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with its fair share of responsibilities. One crucial aspect is understanding how to respond when you encounter a motorboat approaching from the right. Yes, you heard that right – the one on your RIGHT!

Why the Right Matters? Don’t Sweat It!

You might be wondering, “Why does it matter if the motorboat is coming from the right?” Well, my friend, it’s not just a matter of politeness; it’s actually a well-established rule. In boating lingo, it’s known as the “right of way.” Don’t worry; you won’t need to showcase your dazzling dance moves on the deck. Just stick to this rule and you’ll be good to go!

Respect the Waterway’s Hierarchy: A Hierarchy? On the Water

Believe it or not, the waterway has its own hierarchy. It’s like a social pecking order, but without the fancy outfits and small talk. At the top of this aquatic hierarchy are non-displacement vessels (like motorboats) because they have the ability to maneuver more quickly. So, when you spot a motorboat on your right, it’s a clear-cut signal that they have the right of way.

Gentle Reminder: Red Means Give Them the Green Light!

Imagine yourself cruising on the water, admiring the scenic views, when suddenly, a motorboat sneaks up on your right side. Uh-oh, you’ve got yourself a situation! Well, don’t panic, my friend. Remember, it’s their right of way! Slow down, be patient, and give them plenty of space to pass. Just think of it like a red traffic light. When you see red on the right, it’s their turn to take the lead.

Be Predictable: Surprise Parties are Great, but Not on the Water

Surprises may be thrilling on your birthday, but they can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to boating. To ensure a smooth sailing encounter with our motorboat friends, it’s essential to maintain a steady course and speed. Abrupt maneuvers or sudden bursts of speed might send mixed signals and lead to confusion. So, keep calm, stay on your course, and let the motorboat pass without any surprises.

Communication is Key: Talking with Your Vessels? It’s Possible!

Yes, you read that correctly! Though boats don’t necessarily have vocal cords, they do have ways of communicating. When you see a motorboat approaching on your right, it’s always a good idea to establish eye contact with the operator. A friendly wave or a quick nod can act as a non-verbal agreement. It never hurts to acknowledge each other; after all, it’s all about creating a harmonious coexistence on the water!

Wrapping It Up: Smooth Sailing Awaits!

So, dear adventurer, the next time you spot a motorboat approaching on your right, remember the golden rules of the waterway hierarchy. Give them their well-deserved right of way, be predictable with your movements, and establish some non-verbal camaraderie with a friendly wave or nod. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll ensure a delightful, stress-free journey as you navigate the captivating waters. So, let’s raise our imaginary boating hats and set sail for unforgettable adventures!

FAQ: When You See a Motorboat Approaching on Your Right

Introduction:.

As boaters, we encounter various situations on the water that require quick thinking and adherence to navigation rules. One common scenario is when a motorboat approaches on your right. Knowing the proper actions to take ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. In this FAQ-style guide, we’ll address some frequently asked questions about encountering motorboats on your right and shed light on the best practices to follow. So buckle up and let’s dive in!

Which of the following actions is required of a powerboat when approaching the starboard side of a sailboat in darkness or reduced visibility

When approaching the starboard side of a sailboat in darkness or reduced visibility, it is crucial for a powerboat operator to exercise caution and follow the rules of navigation. In such situations, the powerboat must yield the right of way and steer clear of the sailboat. Remember, visibility can be limited, so it’s important to reduce speed while keeping a safe distance from the vessel. Safety first, always!

What must you do if you see another vessel’s red and white lights off your starboard bow

Ahoy there, sailor! If you spot another vessel’s red and white lights off your starboard bow, it’s a signal for caution. In accordance with navigation rules, you should alter your course to the right and pass the other vessel safely on its port side. By doing so, you avoid any potential collisions and maintain a harmonious flow on the water. Smooth sailing, captain!

What action should you take if you are approaching another boat at night and see a white light

Ah, the stars are shining, and the moon is out to play! When operating a powerboat at night and you spot a white light on another boat, it’s a friendly reminder to yield the right of way. Slow down, maintain a safe distance, and allow the other boat to pass ahead of you. It’s like having a dance partner – let them take the lead, and you’ll avoid any tangling of nautical feet. Happy boating under the night sky!

When operating a powerboat at night, you see red and white lights on another boat. What should you do

Lights, lights, and more lights! When you spot red and white lights on another boat while operating your powerboat at night, it’s an indication that the other vessel is navigating with restricted visibility. In this situation, you must yield the right of way and give the other boat a wide berth. Trust those lights like a sailor trusts the North Star, and you’ll sail smoothly through the night.

When operating a powerboat at night, your green side light must be visible to boats approaching from which direction

Ahoy, fellow boaters! When you’re enjoying the tranquil waters at night and operating a powerboat, it’s essential to ensure your green side light is visible to boats approaching from your starboard side. That green light serves as a beacon of guidance, signaling your presence and enabling other boaters to navigate around you safely. So keep that green light shining bright, and let the good times roll!

Which side do you pass a boat on

Ready to play a game of nautical leapfrog? When passing another boat, always remember this golden rule – keep them on your port side. A vessel should be passed on the starboard side, maintaining a safe distance and ensuring a clear path ahead. Stay vigilant, communicate your intentions, and let the waterway become a playground for harmonious boat ballet!

What should you do if you are operating a motorboat that is being overtaken by a sailboat

Hold on tight, sailor! If you find yourself in a situation where a sailboat is overtaking your motorboat, it’s crucial to maintain your course and speed. As the operator of the motorboat being overtaken, you are considered the “stand-on” vessel. The sailboat, known as the “give-way” vessel, should maneuver safely around you while ensuring a safe distance is maintained. So sit back, relax, and let the wind carry that sailboat past you.

When a sailboat is approaching a powerboat, which is the giveaway vessel

Ahoy, matey! When a sailboat approaches a powerboat, the powerboat takes on the role of the “stand-on” vessel, while the sailboat becomes the “give-way” vessel. As the powerboat operator, maintain your course and speed, and keep rockin’ those waves. The sailboat will skillfully navigate around you, ensuring smooth sailing for all. Enjoy the dance of wind and water!

Which statement correctly applies to a situation where a sailing vessel is overtaking a power-driven vessel

Let the wind and water guide you in this sailing masterclass! When a sailing vessel overtakes a power-driven vessel, it’s important to remember that the sailing vessel is the “give-way” vessel, and the power-driven vessel is the “stand-on” vessel. The power-driven vessel should maintain its course and speed while providing ample room for the sailing vessel to pass safely. Together, they create a beautiful symphony on the open seas!

What should the operator of a powerboat do when approaching a large vessel

Oh, the majestic presence of a large vessel on the horizon! When a powerboat encounters a large vessel, it’s crucial for the operator to exercise caution and maintain a safe distance. Reduce your speed, steer clear of the vessel’s path, and be aware of any potential wake that may affect your boat. Remember, respect is in style, and keeping a safe distance from these giants ensures a delightful boating experience for all!

Ahoy, sailor! If you find yourself in the exhilarating position of being overtaken by a sailboat while operating your motorboat, hold steady and maintain your course and speed. As the motorboat operator, you have the right of way and are considered the “stand-on” vessel. The sailboat, known as the “give-way” vessel, will skillfully maneuver around you, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey for all. Sit back, relax, and let the wind guide their course!

When a powerboat meets a sailboat, who has the right of way

Ahoy, fellow adventurers! When a powerboat and a sailboat cross paths, it’s crucial to remember that powerboats give way to sailboats. The sailboat, with its reliance on wind power, holds the right of way over a powerboat. So, channel your inner sailor, gracefully adjust your course if necessary, and enjoy the beauty of harmonious navigation on the open waters. May the wind be ever in your sails!

Are approaching another boat? Assume that, according to the navigation rules, you are the stand-on boat. Which exception to the rules means you must give way

Ah, the rules of the sea! While it’s easy to believe you’re always the “stand-on” boat, there are exceptions to every rule. In specific circumstances, you, as the “stand-on” vessel, must give way to the “give-way” vessel. One crucial exception is when you can’t take appropriate action to avoid a collision. In such cases, toss those rules aside, do what’s necessary to maintain safety, and let those exceptions guide your way. Stay safe, sailor!

What are the four sides of a boat called

Let’s decode the anatomy of a boat, shall we? The four sides of a boat are known as the bow, stern, port, and starboard. The bow? It’s the front, leading the way through the water. The stern? That’s the back, where the boat will bid you farewell. Ah, now the port and starboard! Port refers to the left side of the boat, while starboard is the fancy nautical term for the right side. So, with your newfound knowledge, go forth and impress your fellow boaters with your boat lingo!

Who has the right of way at sea

The ultimate question: who rules the seas? When it comes to right of way at sea, a hierarchy exists. Power-driven vessels generally give way to sailing vessels and vessels engaged in fishing or restricted in their ability to maneuver. Commercial vessels, such as large ships, have their own set of rules. So, remember, as a responsible boater, familiarity with the hierarchy ensures a harmonious experience, and we can all navigate the open waters with ease!

What is the first action required of a boat operator who is involved in a boating accident

Oops, what a bummer! If you find yourself involved in a boating accident, the first action you should take as a responsible boat operator is to ensure the safety of all individuals involved. Attend to any injuries, call for emergency assistance if needed, and render necessary aid to those in distress. Once everyone is safe and sound, it’s crucial to report the accident to the relevant authorities. Safety first, always – even when the water gets a little bumpy!

Which side is port

Calling all seafarers! Port is the nautical term for the left side of a boat when facing forward. A handy way to remember this is that “port” and “left” both have four letters. And if you haven’t guessed it already, “starboard” refers to the right side. So when you’re out on the water, keep those directions in mind, and never lose your way in the sea of port and starboard!

What action should be taken if a motorboat and PWC are approaching head-on

Get ready for some fast and furious watercraft action! When a motorboat and a personal watercraft (PWC) are approaching head-on, both operators must alter their course to starboard (right) to avoid a potential collision. It’s like a synchronized dance, where everyone moves to a new beat. Keep your eyes peeled, make those quick adjustments, and enjoy the thrill of safe maneuvering on the water!

What should the operator of a stand-on vessel do when encountering a give-way vessel

When the music of the waterway plays, and you find yourself as the operator of the “stand-on” vessel, it’s essential to maintain your course and speed. While you have the right of way, vigilance is key. Keep a watchful eye on the “give-way” vessel and be prepared to act swiftly if they fail to maneuver correctly. Confidence, caution, and a little bit of boating swagger will ensure a smooth encounter on the water!

When another boat is approaching from your right

Oh, the thrill of meeting someone new on the water! When another boat approaches from your right, it’s your responsibility to yield the right of way, just like a generous driver at a stop sign. Adjust your course, let them pass safely on your starboard side, and exchange friendly waves as you continue your maritime adventures. It’s all about meaningful encounters and sharing the waterway responsibly!

When one boat is overtaking another, which boat must give way

Ready for a little friendly competition on the water? In a scenario where one boat is overtaking another, the boat being overtaken is known as the “stand-on” vessel, while the overtaking boat is the “give-way” vessel. It’s like a spirited race where the overtaking boat gracefully maneuvers around the other, ensuring a safe and thrilling experience for all involved. Let the games begin!

Why do boats travel on the right

Ah, the art of boating etiquette! Boats travel on the right side, known as the starboard side, to maintain a consistent and organized flow of traffic on the water. It’s like driving on the road, but with a nautical twist. By following this practice, boaters can easily anticipate the movements of other vessels, prevent collisions, and ensure a smooth sailing experience for everyone. It’s all about staying in line and being part of the boating harmony!

What should you always do when a person falls overboard

Man overboard! In the unfortunate event of a person falling overboard, swift action and clear thinking are vital. As the operator of the vessel, you should immediately throw a lifebuoy or any other floatation device to the person in distress. Next, ring the alarm by sounding your horn or using any available means to attract attention. Finally, carefully approach the person in the water while keeping a lookout for other traffic. Time is of the essence, so act quickly, stay calm, and assist your fellow boater in need!

Remember, understanding the rules of the waterways ensures the safety and enjoyment of all boaters. By following these FAQ-style guidelines and using a dash of humor, you’ll navigate through encounters with motorboats on your right like a true boating pro. So go out there, embrace the waves, and let the waters be your playground. Happy boating, fellow enthusiasts!

green light
non-displacement vessels
proper actions
steady course

Laura Rodriguez

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What is an Engine Flush and Do You Need One?

Your vehicle requires regular maintenance with things like oil and other fluid changes, but this may not be enough to truly keep your vehicle operating at its peak performance. From time to time, you should also consider an extra level of preventative maintenance with an engine flush. Adding an engine flush to your maintenance routine helps your motor last longer and really aids in optimizing oil consumption. This is why a quality flush, such as LIQUI MOLY’s Pro-Line Engine Flush , is a wise option for you and your vehicle.

Why Should You Use an Engine Flush?

We all know that running an internal combustion engine causes build up. Metal moving against metal can create friction, combustion generates heat, and that heat can cause oil to sludge and basically leave deposits in your motor that don’t allow it to operate as well as it can. The deposits and other contaminants lead to malfunctions on your engine's components. It causes severe performance issues and even engine failure.

When brand new, an engine needs a certain amount of break-in time to truly perform optimally. During break-in, there can be wear particles and other materials that build up sludge or are dispersed in the oil, which is why an oil change is important early on in your engine’s life. The same can be said after break in, as your motor collects debris, sludge and the by-products of oil combustion and oil breakdown. The engine flush supports to clean these deposits out of the engine before the oil change, allowing the fresh oil to get in a clean engine. This helps to keep the oil in good condition directly after the oil change. Adding regular engine flushes to your routine can help remove deposits, and cut down on your risk of engine issues and lowered performance.

What Does an Engine Flush Do?

what is an engine flush and do you need one

Basically, an engine flush is a chemical cleaner that contains detergents and dispersants from an engine oil in a concentrated form. It is designed to help clear away deposits and anything else that gets left behind in your engine. If you stop to think about it, when you change the oil and oil filter, you always leave a little behind. It is just the nature of fluid dynamics. But there are other deposits that have a little extra staying power. A quality engine flush, like the LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Engine Flush , helps to clear those deposits, sludge, and other contaminating substances that build up in your motor. They are simply drained with the used oil.

If you’ve ever heard that you should never flush your motor, there is some truth in that. You should never flush the motor with the wrong product. If the flush isn’t formulated right, it can cause additional damage. That is something you don’t need to worry about with the Pro-Line Engine Flush . It is a specific formula designed to remove deposits safely.

The Pro Advantage

The LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Engine Flush is designed to optimize your motor’s oil consumption, regardless of what type of oil you use. It also works to ensure proper oil pressure and oil flow when you start your engine and during use. The flush clears the way for the fresh oil to immediately perform exactly as designed while helping restore full engine performance and reduce exhaust emissions.

The LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Engine Flush works with all 4-stroke gasoline and diesel engines including those with or without turbochargers, although it should not be used for motorcycle engines. It is completely safe for use with catalytic converters and filters, too. It is compatible with most of the available motor oils out there, including synthetic blends.

How Do You Use It?

You use it by adding one full can to your existing motor oil (sufficient for volumes from 3 to 5 liters) in your engine. You then let the motor run on idle for roughly 10-15 minutes before shutting it down and completing a normal oil change. The flush works with the old oil to clean out the motor and remove the contaminants with the old oil as you drain it. Once you refill the motor with fresh oil and a new filter, you’ll start to notice the improvements a flush can bring.

Regular use of the LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Engine Flush can keep your motor running better and longer. Learn more at the LIQUI MOLY website today.

NOTE: This is sponsored content produced in partnership with Liqui Moly

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Kitchen & Household

Don't Lose Your Food When the Power Goes Out. Here's How to Save It

Proper preparation and quick action can save the food in your refrigerator during a power outage.

National Silver Azbee Award for Impact/Investigative Journalism; National Gold Azbee Award for Online Single Topic Coverage by a Team; National Bronze Azbee Award for Web Feature Series

A well-stocked refrigerator with doors open

Losing all the food in your refrigerator can be extremely stressful and expensive.

Between the big storms rocking the US Midwest and an energy crunch from the hot weather , there's a significant chance you might find yourself facing a power outage as we near Labor Day weekend . If the worst happens and the lights go out , there are some important steps that you need to take to save your perishable food.

If your power is out for a considerable time, you'll need to make a plan for preserving the food in your refrigerator. Losing a fridge full of food is costly, inconvenient and potentially dangerous if you're unable to get out to a store in the middle of a storm.

Luckily for you, there are ways to prepare ahead of time so that you can save all or most of your perishable foods. Read on to learn how to save your refrigerator's food in the case of a power outage.

For more power outage tips, learn everything you need to know about home generators , and consider whether a home battery backup might be a better option.

Make a plan to save your food before a power outage strikes

Before you face a power outage, it's best to take a few steps to prepare in case you need to save your food. The recommendation from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is to have the following items on hand:

Appliance thermometers for both your refrigerator and freezer, so you can monitor if their temperatures rise and you need to start removing food. The fridge should not rise above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the freezer should not rise above 0 degrees F.
A cooler and frozen gel packs , in case you have to take food out of the fridge to keep it cold.
Dry ice or block ice to keep food cold inside the fridge, if you think the power will be out for a long time.

Do this first to save your food when the power goes out

When an outage hits, keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed -- don't open them up unless you absolutely need to, and even then, try to do so quickly so as not to let the cold air out. If the doors stay closed, your food can stay safe for up to four hours in a refrigerator, 48 hours in a full freezer and 24 hours in a half-full freezer, according to the CDC.

Once you've passed the four-hour mark (or if you see the temperature inside the fridge has risen to over 40 degrees F) and the power is still out, it's time to start moving food out of the fridge. If perishable food has been left in the fridge after that point, you'll have to throw it all out.

The exception here would be if you have dry ice. You can put the dry ice on the top shelf of your freezer and the bottom shelf of your refrigerator, and it will keep your perishables cold. You need about 3 pounds of dry ice per cubic foot of freezer space , which should keep food cold for at least two days. Just make sure you're aware of how to safely handle dry ice before using it.

Food in a cooler including apples, cheese and meat

If the power is out for more than four hours, you'll likely want to move your perishable food to a cooler.

Separate your food into two groups

First, you're going to make two piles: Food that absolutely must be kept cold, and food that is safe to leave on the counter until the power is back on.

Foods that do not need to be kept cold

The following foods can be safely kept out of the fridge:

Butter (for 1-2 days)
Peanut butter
Most cooking oils, with the exception of nut oils
Most fruits and vegetables
Ketchup, mustard and hot sauce

Foods that need to be kept cold

The following foods must be kept at 40 degrees F or lower to prevent bacteria growth and spoilage:

Dairy products (cheese, milk, whipped cream, sour cream)
Meats, poultry and fish (cooked or uncooked)
Cut fruit and vegetables
Leftovers

How to keep your perishable food cold without a refrigerator

Once you've got your pile of perishable food, it's time to pull out your cooler and ice packs. Put a layer of frozen food at the bottom. Then put a layer of foods from the fridge on top of that layer. Top it off with another layer of frozen foods. If you don't have any ice or ice packs, go to the store and buy some if it's safe to do so.

Layer ice or ice packs around the food in the cooler -- don't just throw it all on top or bottom. Distributing the ice will keep the food at a more consistent temperature. Move your fridge thermometer inside the cooler to keep an eye on the temperature.

If you don't have a cooler, you can use your freezer instead -- it's insulated and will keep your food cold as long as you leave the door shut and keep a fresh supply of ice in it. To prevent melting ice from turning your freezer into a pond, put ice in bowls and place them around the food.

You should never taste food to see if it's gone bad -- when in doubt, throw it out, the CDC advises. Throw away any food with unusual odors, colors or textures right away. In terms of frozen foods, you can safely refreeze or cook thawed frozen food that is at 40 degrees F or below, or that still contains ice crystals.

For more tips on how to prepare for natural disasters, check out how to pack an emergency bag , and how to recover important documents after a natural disaster .

How To Choose The Best Oil To Use In Your Honda

H onda is one of the most well-known and reliable car brands. The brand sells millions of cars per year, and that's not counting Honda's excellent motorcycles . As such, there are a bunch of Honda owners out there and not all of them may know the basics about oil. Oil is the lifeblood of your car and without it, the car is 100% certain to break down. No matter how reliable a car is, you still need to change the oil to keep it running smoothly.

The only hard part is that Honda has been around for decades, so there are a lot of different Honda vehicles. Fortunately, Honda has engineered their vehicles to run on standard oil types that are commonly available. You won't need to buy an exotic oil or look for a weird viscosity rating. Honda doesn't implement any strange oil pan placement or behaviors. They're one of the easiest car brands to service yourself, and there are plenty of Honda dealerships -- along with independent mechanics -- that can handle them.

So, let's get down to brass tacks. Most modern Honda cars use the same type of oil. With the exception of the S2000, which takes 5W-30, almost every Honda built after 2003 takes either 0W-20 or 0W-25. (We'll get into the specifics later.) There is a lot to know about how oil works in a Honda, especially if you're a little newer to "car stuff."

Read more: Major Tire Brands Ranked Worst To Best

A Quick Primer On Oil Viscosity

Motor oil tends to be differentiated by its viscosity. In most cases, you'll see oil referred to by its viscosity rating. The rating is also referred to as the oil weight, and the terms are used interchangeably. In general, most modern cars, trucks, and SUVs use multi-grade motor oil. You'll see this written as something like 0W-20 or 5W-30. There are single-grade oils, such as 10W or 20W, but it's rare to see those used in cars. Most folks put them in lawnmowers, chainsaws, and similar equipment.

Here's what those numbers mean. The first number is the oil's viscosity rating when the engine is cold, meaning that it hasn't been started yet. The second number is the oil's viscosity rating when the engine is fully warmed up. Finally, the "W" that's almost always in the middle stands for "Winter", and it denotes that the oil is safe to use at winter temperatures. Thus, a 0W-20 oil means that it's at a "0" viscosity when it's cold, becomes a "20" viscosity oil when it's warmed up, and it can be used in the winter.

The final piece to the puzzle is understanding what needs to happen. In general, we all want thinner oil when it's cold so the engine can get properly lubricated as quickly as possible. Then, as the car warms up, you want the oil to thicken because thicker oil protects the engine better from wear. Thus, a 0W-20 oil is very thin when it's cold and thickens up to a 20 rating once it warms up. By contrast, a 5W-20 oil is slightly thicker than 0W-20 oil when it's cold but is the same viscosity once the car reaches operating temperature.

A Quick Primer On Oil Types

In addition to oil weights, there are three main types of oil that you can buy. They include conventional oil, synthetic blend, or full synthetic. Essentially, the difference between them is how many additives and other chemicals are present. For the record, full synthetic oil is not fake oil. It still uses crude oil as a base, but it's more heavily processed with additional additives and chemicals to aid in performance. The myth that synthetic oil isn't real oil is false. It is real oil.

Conventional oil is essentially crude oil refined for use in car engines. You don't see conventional oil used much in cars these days. It tends to be heavier and less resistant to extreme weather. Only older cars still use conventional oil, and it's not recommended, especially if you live in climates where winters are cold. Next, there is synthetic blend oil. This is essentially just a mix of cheaper conventional oil and full synthetic. It performs better and keeps your engine cleaner than conventional oil but is much less expensive than full synthetic.

Full synthetic oil is chemically engineered with additional chemicals, along with having fewer impurities than conventional oil. That allows full synthetic oil to work better at extreme temperatures, resist degradation better, and keep your engine cleaner. Variants of full synthetic are what most car brands recommend that you use. Honda uses what it calls Ultra Full Synthetic Oil. Honda says it developed this oil specifically for Honda engines and it's typically only available at Honda dealerships.

Why You Should Get Your Oil Changed

Oil, like most other substances on earth, degrades as it ages. Heating it up and cooling it down over and over again accelerates this process. This gradual degradation isn't noticeable on a day-to-day basis, but it's not terribly difficult to tell the difference between old, dirty oil and new, fresh oil. A good extreme case is to find a video where someone is changing the oil on a car that hasn't been changed in a few years. It's essentially sludge at that point, which makes it easy to tell apart from fresh oil visually.

Aging oil can have a variety of negative effects if not taken care of in a timely manner. For starters, old oil is worse at lubrication than fresh oil, so your engine won't function as well. It may not be noticeable by listening or by driving, but you'll get slightly worse fuel economy, and your engine may get a little warmer than it normally does. It's not unusual to feel like the car feels better to drive after a fresh oil change, especially if it's been a while.

Over the long term, much worse things can happen if you don't change your oil regularly. They can include faster engine wear, which leads to more frequent breakdowns and sooner-than-expected engine failure. Additionally, for newer vehicles at least, car makers will void your warranty if you don't get regular oil changes because the companies don't feel like they should fork out for warranty repairs when the failure could've been caused by old oil. It's not cool, but that's how it works.

What Kind Of Oil Does Honda Recommend I Use?

The first place you should look to see what type of oil you need is your owner's manual. If you don't have one, Honda lets you download a PDF version for free on their MyGarage website . Simply enter your car's year, model, and trim, and the site will find your manual. There's an alternate method where you can use your VIN as well. The owner's manual will list the right type of oil for your Honda.

For newer Hondas, this is actually pretty easy. If you have a modern Honda from the last two generations, Honda recommends that you use 0W-20 oil. That works for the Accord , Ridgeline, Pilot, and the rest of their lineup. So, for example, if you own a 10th-generation or 11th-generation Honda Accord, every variant of it from the hybrid to the 2.0T uses 0W-20 oil. The same goes for every other vehicle that Honda sells.

If your vehicle is older than that, it may get a little more complicated. Most vehicles Honda made from 2003 to 2012 use 5W-20 or 0W-20 while most Hondas made in the 1990s use 5W-30. Hondas made in the 1980s usually used 10W-30 oil. You'll want to search for your specific model to get exact details, but it's very rare to see a car need something lighter than 0W-20 or heavier than 10W-30 from Honda.

In terms of oil type, Honda recommends its own Ultra Full Synthetic blend, which you can usually only get at dealerships. Barring that, you'll be fine with a full synthetic oil provided that it's the correct viscosity.

Do I Have To Get My Oil Changed At A Honda Dealership?

Strictly speaking, no you don't. Honda prefers that you use the dealership because it helps out the dealership financially, and Honda can use the type of oil they believe works best for your car. That said, there are some benefits to going to a dealership. Generally speaking, the dealership will have all of the proper fluids, from oil to transmission fluid to brake fluid. There's no guesswork at a dealership, and you know exactly what's going into your car, even if it costs extra. Plus, a dealership will take care of things like recalls if your car has them, usually free of charge.

You don't absolutely have to go to a dealership, though. As long as the correct type of oil is going into your Honda, it will still drive like it's just had a fresh oil change. Mechanics and oil change shops have databases that tell them what kind of oil to use on your Honda, and if not, they know how to find that information. It's extremely rare for a mechanic to put the wrong oil in your car.

In either case, the most important part is ensuring that the proper oil is going into your car. If you're not using Honda oil, it should be a full synthetic oil in the case that your Honda is newer. There is also high-mileage oil that you can put in your older Honda to help it work its best given its advanced age. If your mechanic is reliable, they should be able to help you decide if regular full synthetic or high-mileage oil is right for you.

How Often Should I Get My Honda's Oil Changed?

For newer Hondas, the car maker recommends 7,500 to 10,000 miles, assuming that you're using Honda's oil. If you use a different type of oil, you may want to stray closer to 7,500 than 10,000. This is another question your owner's manual can cover so we recommend looking in there for your specific model. Modern Hondas also come with a feature called Maintenance Minder that will remind you to get your oil changed once the car has determined that your oil is too old. It usually determines your oil life by the number of miles you've driven and how long it's been since your last oil change.

For older models and models that don't have Maintenance Minder, the rules are mostly the same. Check your owner's manual to see how much mileage or how much time between oil changes. You'll just have to remember to do it manually since the car's computer won't remind you. However, it is also conventional wisdom that older cars don't use oil as well as newer cars, so you should plan for oil changes a little more frequently.

The old rule of thumb is every six months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. You can follow that advice today if you really want to, but modern oil is a lot better at lubricating newer engines for longer than old oil, so you would be effectively wasting money if you adhered to that schedule on a new car. If your Honda is old or has very high mileage, then 3,000 miles is still a good rule of thumb to follow.

What You Should Know About Mixing Oil Viscosities

You can, in fact, mix oils with different viscosities. The differences between something like 0W-20 and 5W-20 isn't vast, so there is little harm if you need to top off your oil and you can't find the exact same type available. That shouldn't happen very often, but gas stations out in the boonies aren't known for stocking an entire lineup of motor oil. Adding slightly thicker or thinner oil won't affect your car so much that it'll have problems. It's better to have a slightly different oil in your car than to not have oil in your car at all.

However, we don't recommend using the wrong oil over a long period of time, nor do we recommend using the wrong oil viscosity for oil changes. There is a difference between topping up in an emergency with something slightly different and running your car on completely different oil all the time. Honda knows what kind of oil its engines need, and using a different oil weight has the potential to accelerate engine wear and potentially cause breakdowns later in the vehicle's life. It's not recommended.

Check Your Oil Levels Consistently

Finally, let's discuss how often you should check your oil levels. A lot of people never get into this habit, and have no idea how much oil is in their car at any given moment. It's definitely in your best interest to check your oil at least once a month. A lot of people check theirs almost every time they fill up their gas tank. It's not like there's anything else to do while refueling.

There are a few reasons why this is a good idea. A lot of engines burn oil alongside the fuel during combustion, so you may need to add more oil occasionally to replace what's been lost. On the other end of the spectrum, a common issue with modern turbo engines is fuel dilution where gasoline gets into your oil pan. This is easily recognizable if you regularly check your oil levels. You may find that you have way more oil than you expected, and your oil will smell like gasoline. In either case, whether it's too high or too low, it's better to know about such issues sooner rather than later.

For Hondas, this is especially true. The 1.5-liter turbos the company puts in their fifth-generation Honda CR-Vs have a history of fuel dilution issues. You can usually fix these yourself by driving the car at its operating temperature for 20 to 30 extra minutes to burn off the excess fuel. However, the point is that issues like this can happen to anyone, even a Honda owner.

Read the original article on SlashGear .

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