Advantages (differences) in I/O and inboard

[Cindy2021]

We are considering buying a 34'-40' boat for mainly cruising the ICW. Seems the "cruisers" have mostly stern drives. Some of the "convertibles" ( I guess that's what they are called). have inboards (Silverton etc.) We have owned I/O before but this is a whole new adventure we are considering. MPG (GPH) is a concern.

 

[alldodge]

I/O higher efficiency, higher maintenance cost
IB lower efficiency, lower maintenance cost

 

[Cindy2021]

I/O higher efficiency, higher maintenance cost
IB lower efficiency, lower maintenance cost

Thanks ..... so somewhat of a tradeoff. So either for a 34' boat cruising the ICW ?? And when you say efficiency, you are talking fuel ??

 

[alldodge]

Yes, I/O is better on fuel. In most cases the IB will draft less water

 

[racerone]

Consider a pair of 100 / 120 HP diesels in a trawler type boat..---- If you are just doing slow ( less than 10 knots ) cruising that would be the cheapest / hour.----Speed gobbles up fuel beyond belief.

 

[Cindy2021]

Consider a pair of 100 / 120 HP diesels in a trawler type boat..---- If you are just doing slow ( less than 10 knots ) cruising that would be the cheapest / hour.----Speed gobbles up fuel beyond belief.

I would say 85% would be 10 knots or less but don't want that to be the max.

 

[QBhoy]

As said. Outdrive are more efficient usually. Easier option if space is an issue.
shaft inboards are less hassle and also a whole lot more of a pleasure to handle. So much more manoeuvring ability. Outdrive also can be lifted for shallow water approach etc.

 

[Lou C]

In that environment shaft drives will have much better resale value. The much lower cost of maintenance vs stern drives will offset the higher fuel consumption.

 

[Scott Danforth]

on the ICW, there are two types of boaters. those that have run aground and those that will run aground.

both IB or I/O will be fine. motors will require the same maintenance