by Winn Willard

We have seen some fuel efficiency comparisons published by our competitors that compare their single engine boat to one of our twin engine models. Don’t be fooled!

All single diesel powered Hunt Yachts, 29-36 ft., achieve 2.0 – 2.5 nautical miles per gallon at their cruise speed of 20-24 knots.  This was by design. The gas engine versions don’t do quite as well but are still in the range of 1.5 -2.0 nmpg. This is simply because there is not as much energy in a gallon of gasoline as there is in diesel. Gasoline weighs 6.2 lbs per gallon and diesel 7.2.  There is just more hydrocarbon to burn in diesel fuel. However, this fact is reflected in the cost. Diesel costs more. We pay more for more energy.

For casual boaters the cost differential is small and the savings in boat fuel costs alone do not justify opting for diesel power.

But when comparing efficiency, be careful to compare apples to apples, and don’t be fooled by smarmy and misleading sales tactics.

Hunt Design Associates has been designing and engineering power yachts for over 60 years and fuel efficiency has always been top of mind.  We did not invent a trend to tell you what you want to hear; we have always thought about fuel efficiency as an important factor in boat ownership and will remain a leader in providing boats which are economically efficient and give you choices.