2MPG boat for cruising the ICW ??

[Cindy2021]

Been reading about hulls etc and how they can affect MPG (GPH). We are looking for a boat for cruising the ICW but don't want one that will only hit 10 knots max. Would like something a little faster for the few occasions we may cross the bay (or just outrun a storm). Like the looks of the 34' Silverton and 35' Sea Ray. Are there boats like this that will get us 2 MPG ( or 5GPH) when running slow (7-8 knots). We know it will suck fuel when opened up but mainly interested on economy on long slow runs like on the ICW.

 

[Scott Danforth]

If you want fuel economy in a boat, get one with sails or oars.

Too many factors effect fuel economy including load, bottom condition, wind, current, temperature, load, hull design, etc.

At a minimum you are looking at diesels which have a BSFC of 0.33 vs a spark ignited motor with a BSFC of 0.4

 

[Cindy2021]

Looking for logical suggestions thank you. Anyone with a reasonable suggestion is appreciated.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Youre looking for something that doesnt exist.

 

[FunInDuhSun]

I run my Silverton 34C at ‘trawler speed’ most of the time. I’ve never measured efficiency at that level but I’d think 5 GPH is reasonable, running both engines. Gettin’ there is half the fun!
She will top out at 26 MPH but she drinks 22 GPH. I don’t go there much.

 

[Scott Danforth]

I would suggest you actually plot your fuel use. You will find your average consumption higher than you think. Plan on 6-8 gph average and rejoice when you get more. Too many no wake zones and traffic in the ICW to simply cuise along just above idle

 

[Cindy2021]

Appreciate your "help" but I already knew that oars and sails were more efficient.
Thank you FunInDuhSun. I have read elsewhere where this is reasonable. Some folks don't like to go slow and don't appreciate the ICW. Now if I can get a few more knowledgeable replies, it would be appreciated.

 

[GA_Boater]

You tell people they aren't helping when you aren't doing your part.

Are you looking at new Silvertons and SeaRays or used? Any boating or ICW experience? It is a different animal. It's shallow and the wakes from a string of barges will knock your socks off.

Oh, the ICW is 3,000 miles in length. Which part are you planning on running?

 

[Cindy2021]

You tell people they aren't helping when you aren't doing your part.

Are you looking at new Silvertons and SeaRays or used? Any boating or ICW experience? It is a different animal. It's shallow and the wakes from a string of barges will knock your socks off.

Oh, the ICW is 3,000 miles in length. Which part are you planning on running?

Def looking used. I have owned 3 boats but nothing as large as a 34' and I have cruised the ICW ....... Virginia to Jacksonville.... but it was years ago and actually was in a sailboat.

 

[FunInDuhSun]

FWIW, when I purchased the Silverton in 2004 I travelled over 400 miles on the ICW. It was a great trip and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Since it was new to me, I ran it easy but did cruise quite a bit at 2650 RPM’s (the sellers recommendation for economy). -Anytime- another vessel passed, I slowed to no-wake speed to minimize my wake AND to cross their vessels wake safely. Even big boats can get waked.
My favorite part of the trip: the Dismal Swamp Canal, go figure!