Saving on Fuel

With rising gas prices and the environment top of mind for today's consumer, boaters are using their boats in different ways than in years past. 

• Boaters are considering ways to reduce fuel consumption while on the water, including reducing cruising speed, tuning the engine and taking shorter trips.
• Unlike driving a car, a boat's engine is often idle or turned off while anchoring, floating or at the dock (all three of which are some of boaters' favorite on-the-water activities).
• An average size powerboat uses about 20 gallons of gas over an entire weekend.  A $1 increase in gas translates to spending just $20 more for a weekend of boating.
• Boaters are beginning to buy engines that better match their boats. If engines have to be run at near or open throttle most of the time, its too small for the boat and its load and fuel consumption and emissions will exceed normal standards.

Tips For Reducing Fuel Usage

• Slower speeds on the water will reduce fuel usage.
• Proper use of trim tabs reduce drag, especially while accelerating up to planing speeds.
• Minimize the amount of time that you idle at the dock
• Minimize the use of onboard generators.
• Use dock-side electrical power in lieu of generators.
• Have a float plan so you know exactly where you’re going.
• Make sure the hull is clean.
• Don’t under-power your boat. It’s important you have enough motor to handle the load.
• Check your propeller. If your boat is slow "out of the hole" or lacks top-end speed, you might have the wrong propeller.
• A well-tuned engine uses less fuel.
• Use the grade of gasoline specified by the engine manufacturer.
• Visit DiscoverBoating.com for more helpful tips on reducing fuel usage.

Boating Accessories Go Green

Environmentally-Friendly Cleaning Products

Many marine cleaning products developed today demonstrate a commitment to clean water. Companies have developed non-toxic based biodegradable boat soaps, which have a minimal impact on the aquatic environment. We've also seen the introduction of color safe, oxygen release gels and cleansers that remove spots off of boats without using bleach or other hazardous materials.

Environmentally-Friendly Marine Aftermarket Accessories

Innovative companies in our industry have developed ways to extend the life of batteries in harsh marine environments. Some products are designed to reduce premature battery failure caused by periods of inactivity. These systems utilize the power of the battery and return it as a surge or pulse. These products can also revive many older batteries back to their original state.

Improvements in Marine Sanitation

Since the passage of the Clean Vessel Act in 1992 marine sanitation has seen remarkable improvements. Marine sanitation manufacturers are providing consumers with new products to protect the marine environment from boat sewage. Manufacturers have developed and marketed innovative technologies that treat, store and contain waste more effectively.