Presenting

MaritiMe technoloGy hether cuing through the Gulf waters or one of the inlets along Florida's west coast, having the right propulsion system on your boat requires more than just any motor. Ever y boat requires its own design and different ty pe of propulsion, and with boaters ask ing for more speed on the water, manufacturers are meeting their demands with updated, specially designed motors for different depths and regions. e new advancements in technolog y are also pushing for cleaner and lighter versions for inboard and outboard engines. Size Matters Nautical experts agree that one of the biggest reasons why boaters become disinterested in their nautical vessels is due to the lack of horsepower. If you choose the wrong propulsion system, the engine is forced to work harder to maintain speed and consistency on the water, plus uses excessive fuel. is is a case when size really does maer! Choosing the right propulsion system when buying a boat can make a difference when charting a daylong deep sea fishing trip, or a leisurely sail along the Intracoastal Water ways. More horsepower ensures more control and handling of the boat at midrange speeds and beer capabilities if boaters encounter rough seas. It's best to k now what you plan to do with your boat to determine the best motor to buy. Just ask ing , " how far will it go?" doesn't mean you will get the right propulsion system for your needs and lifestyle on the water. Experts say the best advice is to match your horsepower to the ma x imum your boat is rated. Different boards require var ying levels of speed from the motor and propeller. Here's a look at some of the popular engine ty pes available. Outboards Outboard motors are the most popular especially with smaller boats. Designed to be lighter and faster, the new modern outboard motors are also ver y quiet on the water. Outboard motors have a self- contained propulsion system from engine to transmission to sha and propeller, and the gear case and propeller can be tilted out of the water when not in use. ey come in a range of sizes and horsepower, as well as different fuel sources. Inboards Inboard engines mount the engine and transmission to the hull of the boat. e drive sha extends through the hull and the propeller is mounted to drive the engine while a rudder controls steering. Pod Drive Engines A favorite among the marine industr y since 2004, manufacturers have designed this new form of boat propulsion. ese systems offer more thrust per horsepower because of the alignment with the keel of the boat and offer special steering and throle systems to ma x imize efficiency. Pod drive engines are entirely electronic so boats owners can integrate it with the boat's GPS onboard systems, allowing sailors to maintain their position and tend to mooring lines or other activities until they return to the helm. e engine system is more expensive than other motors, but saves more space onboard. Jet Boat Engines Perhaps the fastest – and most popular – are jet boat engines. ese fast-paced engines draw water from under the boat into a pump inside and then expel the water through a nozzle at the stern, like you see on personal watercras. ese engines are ver y easy to maneuver and offer fast acceleration on or below the water. ere is a propulsion system for ever y boat and ever y budget, but identif ying your lifestyle needs before purchasing a motor will ensure endless days of happy excursions. by Katherine Ferrara Johnson Propulsion System Selecting the R ight W Photo cour tesy St Petersburg CVB 18 | FLORIDA BOATING MAGAZINE U FloridaBoatingMag.com

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