Choosing The Right Engine Size For Your 17-Foot Boat

Choosing the right engine size for a boat is a complex task that requires consideration of various factors, and this is no different for a 17-foot vessel. While engine size is important, it's also crucial to understand how much power is necessary to propel the boat through the water. The weight of the boat, the hull design, and the intended use all play a role in determining the ideal engine size.

For a 17-foot boat, a motor with a power output between 90 and 115 horsepower is typically recommended. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the boat's weight and hull design. Lighter boats with minimal drag may perform well with less powerful motors, while heavier boats made with solid fibreglass or loaded with gear and passengers will require a more potent engine.

It's also important to consider the type of activities the boat will be used for. Leisurely activities like fishing or cruising may require a quieter and more fuel-efficient motor, while water sports such as waterskiing or wakeboarding demand a faster and more powerful motor.

When choosing an engine for a 17-foot boat, it's always best to consult with a marine professional to ensure that the selected engine aligns with the vessel's specific characteristics and intended use.

Hull design and weight

The weight of a 17-foot boat varies depending on the type of boat, the materials used, and the purpose it serves. The average weight of a 17-foot boat is between 1,150 and 2,220 pounds, excluding the weight of a trailer.

The weight of a boat is an important factor to consider when choosing an engine, as it will impact the power needed to push the boat through the water. A heavier boat will require a more powerful motor.

Boat weight is influenced by several factors, including hull material, type, and purpose. For example, a fiberglass boat will weigh more than an aluminum boat, and a fishing boat will weigh less than a center console.

Let's look at some specific examples of 17-foot boats and their weights:

• The Edgewater 170CC, a center console boat with a Yamaha F115 outboard motor, has a dry weight of 2,250 pounds, including the 115 HP motor.
• The Princecraft Vectra 17, a pontoon boat with a maximum of 50 HP motor, has a dry weight of 1,567 pounds with the motor and 1,312 pounds without.
• The Flats Cat 17', a catamaran fishing boat with a recommended 90 HP motor, has a dry weight of 800 pounds without the motor.

When choosing an engine for a 17-foot boat, it's important to consider not only the weight of the boat but also the intended use, the number of people onboard, and the type of water it will be used in. These factors will help determine the appropriate engine size and power needed.

Boat usage

The intended usage of your 17-foot boat will have a significant impact on the choice of motor. Leisurely activities, such as cruising or fishing, may not require as much power as sporting activities like waterskiing or wakeboarding. If you're into fishing, a quieter motor might be preferable to avoid scaring off fish. On the other hand, if you're planning to engage in water sports, a motor with higher horsepower would be more suitable.

The frequency and duration of your trips should also be considered. If you're a regular boater who takes long trips, investing in a durable and reliable motor is essential. In contrast, occasional boaters may not need to spend as much on high-end durability.

The weather and water conditions you typically encounter will also play a role in your motor selection. Rough waters and challenging weather conditions demand a more powerful motor, while calm lakes and mild weather may not require as much power.

Additionally, consider the number of passengers and the amount of cargo you typically carry. If you plan to have multiple passengers and carry heavy gear, you'll need more horsepower to move efficiently and maintain adequate speed.

If you intend to use your boat for a mix of leisure and sporting activities, a versatile motor that balances power and efficiency would be ideal.

Ultimately, consulting with a marine professional is always recommended to ensure you make an informed decision that considers all relevant factors.

Passenger and cargo load

The number of passengers and the weight of cargo you plan to carry on your 17-foot boat will influence the size of the engine you need. The more passengers you have on board, the more weight your boat will carry, and the more power you will need from your engine.

The weight of your boat and the desired speed are key factors in determining the size of the engine you will need. A good rule of thumb is to have 20 to 40 pounds of weight per 1 horsepower. This means that a 40-horsepower motor should be able to move a boat that weighs between 1,000 and 1,600 pounds.

The type of water you will be boating in is another important consideration. If you plan to boat in calm waters, you won't need as much power as you would if you were boating in rough waters.

The activities you plan to do with your boat will also impact the size of the engine you need. If you intend to use your boat for leisurely activities, you won't need as much power as you would if you were using your boat for racing or watersports.

The weight and size of your boat, as well as the type of propeller, will also determine the maximum horsepower your boat can handle. A heavier boat with a larger propeller will require more power than a lighter boat with a smaller propeller.

It's important to note that putting an engine that is too big for your boat can cause damage. More horsepower can put undue stress on the hull and other parts of the boat. It will also increase fuel consumption and reduce fuel efficiency.

When choosing an engine for your 17-foot boat, it's best to consult with a professional who can take into account all the relevant factors and help you select the right size engine for your specific needs.

Boat type

The ideal engine size for a 17-foot boat depends on several factors, including the type of boat, its weight, hull design, and intended use.

The type of boat you have will influence the size of the engine required. For example, a 17-foot boat used for fishing or other low-speed activities may require a smaller motor than one used for longer journeys or high-speed activities.

In general, outboard motors are more versatile and better suited for small to medium-sized boats, while inboard motors are more powerful and suitable for larger boats. Outboard motors are also easier to install and maintain.

If you're using a trolling motor for a small boat, consider whether you want a gas or electric motor. Gas motors offer more thrust, while electric motors are quieter, lighter, and more suitable for fishing or hunting as they don't require a gas tank.

Boat Weight

The weight of your boat is a critical factor in determining the size of the engine. Heavier boats, such as those made with solid fiberglass or loaded with gear and passengers, require more potent engines to achieve the desired performance.

Lighter boats with minimal drag can perform well with less powerful motors. However, an underpowered motor on a heavy boat will result in higher fuel consumption and potential mechanical issues.

Hull Design

The design of the boat's hull significantly impacts its performance and handling, affecting the choice of the engine. Flat-bottomed hulls offer excellent stability at low speeds and in calm waters but may require more power to maintain speed in rough conditions.

V-shaped hulls, on the other hand, cut through the water efficiently and perform well in rough conditions, requiring less power to achieve higher speeds. Multi-hull designs, such as catamarans, offer excellent stability and efficiency but may have unique power requirements compared to mono-hulled boats.

Intended Use

The intended use of your 17-foot boat will also influence the size of the engine. If you plan to use it for leisurely activities like cruising, sightseeing, or fishing, a moderate-power, fuel-efficient, and quiet motor may be sufficient.

However, if you intend to use the boat for water sports like waterskiing or wakeboarding, a more powerful engine is necessary to achieve higher speeds and pull skiers or create sizeable wakes.

Additionally, consider the frequency and duration of your trips, the usual weather and water conditions, and the number of passengers and gear you typically carry. These factors will help you choose an engine that aligns with your specific needs and ensures safe and efficient operation.

Engine type

The type of engine you choose for your 17-foot boat will depend on a variety of factors, including the weight of your boat, the type of water you'll be navigating, and the number of passengers you plan to carry.

Outboard vs Inboard Engines

Outboard motors are more versatile and can be used on a wider variety of boats. They are perfect for small to medium-sized boats and can be used for various activities. They are also relatively easy to install and maintain. Inboard motors, on the other hand, are better suited for larger boats and can provide a smoother ride. However, they tend to be more expensive and require more maintenance.

Two-Stroke vs Four-Stroke Engines

Two-stroke engines burn a blend of gas and oil, while four-stroke engines burn straight gasoline and circulate lubricating oil through a separate system. Two-stroke engines were once considered more powerful, but modern advancements have blurred the lines between the two types of engines. Today, both two-stroke and four-stroke engines offer similar levels of performance, smoothness, and fuel efficiency.

Electric Motors

If you're concerned about environmental impact, electric motors or hybrid options are worth considering. These produce zero or significantly reduced emissions, making them ideal for preserving the pristine nature of waterways.

Trolling Motors

Trolling motors are small and lightweight, making them a popular choice for small boats. They provide enough power for upstream use but may not offer high speeds. Gas-powered trolling motors are more popular due to their greater thrust, while electric trolling motors are quieter and preferred by anglers and hunters.

Thrust and Boat Weight

The weight of your boat will determine the amount of thrust you need from your engine. Heavier boats will require more horsepower to achieve the same performance as lighter boats. It is recommended to use a motor with 5lb of thrust for every 200lb of gross boat weight.

Shaft Length

When choosing an engine, consider the shaft length, especially if your boat has a short transom. The shaft length should match the length of your transom to ensure the propeller is positioned correctly in the water for stability and performance.

In summary, the type of engine you choose for your 17-foot boat will depend on various factors, including boat weight, intended use, water conditions, and personal preferences. Consulting with a marine professional is always recommended to ensure you make the right choice for your specific needs.

Frequently asked questions