When selecting a new electric outboard motor for sailing, there are a few factors you need to consider. What is the size of your boat, what type of sailing, what is your budget, and how many people will use the motor? When looking for the perfect outboard motor for your family sailing boat, you must ask these critical questions.
Electric Vs. Gasoline Outboard Motors
There are critical differences between electric outboard motors and outboard gasoline motors. The most obvious difference is that electric outboards run on batteries, while gasoline outboards run on gas. Electric outboards are much quieter than gasoline outboards and don’t produce fumes. Electric outboards are also much lighter than their gas-powered counterparts, making them easier to carry and manoeuvre.
However, electric outboards don’t have the same power or range as gasoline outboards. If you regularly sail long-distance or have a large boat, you’ll probably want to stick with a gas-powered motor.
How Big Is Your Boat?
The size of your family sailing boat is an essential factor to consider when choosing an outboard motor. If you have a small sailboat, you won’t need as much power as you would if you had a large one. However, electric outboards typically don’t have as much power as gasoline outboards, so if you have a large boat, you’ll probably want to stick with gas.
Different Types of Family Sailing Boats And Recommended Outboard Motor Size
You should match the size of your outboard motor with your family sailboat. Monohulls, catamarans, and trimarans are the three types of family sailboats: monohulls, catamarans, and trimarans. Catamarans are two-hulled vessels that can be challenging to sail.
Monohulls:
- If you have a small monohull (<20 feet), an electric outboard motor with at least five horsepower is recommended.
- If you have a medium monohull (20-30 feet), an electric outboard motor with at least eight horsepower is recommended.
- If you have a large monohull (>30 feet), a gasoline outboard motor with at least 25 horsepower is recommended.
Catamarans:
- If you have a small catamaran (<20 feet), an electric outboard motor with at least six horsepower is recommended.
- If you have a medium catamaran (20-30 feet), an electric outboard motor with at least ten horsepower is recommended.
- If you have a large catamaran (>30 feet), a gasoline outboard motor with at least 30 horsepower is recommended.
Trimarans:
- If you have a small trimaran (<20 feet), an electric outboard motor with at least seven horsepower is recommended.
- If you have a medium trimaran (20-30 feet), an electric outboard motor with at least twelve horsepower is recommended.
- If you have a giant trimaran (>30 feet), a gasoline outboard motor with at least 35 horsepower is recommended.
What Kind Of Sailing Are You Doing?
If you’re racing, you need an outboard that can go fast. Electric outboards typically can not go as fast as gasoline outboards. If you enjoy speed, a gasoline outboard is probably the way to go; however, if you cruise around and enjoy the scenery, an electric outboard motor is a suitable choice.
Kind Of Sailing And Recommended Outboard Motor Size
- If you are planning on racing, a gasoline outboard motor with at least 25 horsepower is recommended.
- If you plan to cruise, an electric outboard motor with at least five horsepower is recommended.
How Many People Will Be Using The Motor?
If you have many family members or are planning on taking friends out sailing with you, you will need an outboard to accommodate everyone. Electric outboards typically have a lower capacity than gasoline outboards, so if you need to carry more than two people, you’ll probably want to go with gas. However, electric outboard motors can carry up to four people, depending on your specific needs.
Number Of Passengers And Recommended Outboard Motor Size
- If you need to carry two people, an electric outboard motor with at least five horsepower is recommended.
- If four people are sailing with you, a gasoline outboard motor with at least 25 horsepower is recommended.
What’s Your Budget?
Electric outboards are typically more expensive than gasoline outboards. However, electric outboards don’t require gas or oil, so they can save you money in the long run. A used outboard motor might be a good option if you’re on a tight budget. You can find used outboards at marinas, online classifieds, and garage sales. Just make sure to get the outboard serviced before you use it.
Average Prices of Electric and Gas Outboard Motors Per Size
- Small outboard motors (<20 feet): Electric outboards start at around $600, and gasoline outboards begin at about $300.
- Medium outboard motors (20-30 feet): Electric outboards start at around $1000, and gasoline outboards begin at about $500.
- Large outboard motors (>30 feet): Electric outboards start at around $2000, and gasoline outboards can go up to $5000.
Conclusion
When choosing an outboard motor for your family sailing boat, there are many factors to consider. The type of vessel you have, the kind of sailing you’re doing, your budget, and the number of people you’ll be carrying are all crucial considerations. However, if you take the time to do your research, you should be able to find the perfect outboard motor for your needs.
