Are single engine boats better than twin engine models? There are plenty of schools of thought on this one. Diesel engine reliability has increased dramatically over the last ten years. Fuel quality has also improved as more diesel powered boats are in operation so fuel storage tanks get refreshed more often. Is the old argument that two is better than one still valid?
Fuel economy is a big issue. In late December I went on a photography session on the west coast of Florida and we shot running images of the Back Cove 33. Our photo boat was an Ocean Master 31 with twin 250hp outboards. We ran the same times and distances for two days and at the end of the second day we refueled both boats. To my amazement the Back Cove 33 (with 480 Cummins engine) cost us $70 to refill and the Ocean Master cost $200. That’s a huge difference in operating costs.
Anyone have an opinion on this topic?
