Estimated cruise range on plane?

[muskie hunter]

I have a 1996 Wellcraft 26se 7.4 bravo II 330 hp apx 5400 lbs empty. Engine wot rpm is 4600 at 42 mph, cruise speed on plane is 23mph at 2800-3000 rpm.
I know that there are many variable affecting fuel mileage,passenger weight, gear weight, water conditions ect.. Does anyone have an idea of how much range this vessle is capable of? Any idea how many gph will be uses trolling at 1-3 mph 850 rpm.The fuel tank holds 77 gallons.
I am going salmon fishing this tuesday on lake Michigan and will have 6 adults, full fuel (77 gal) full water (38 gal) air conditioner,generator, fishing gear and food. The last thing I want to get towed in for is something as dumb as running out of gas!
I know this is a stab in the dark, but Im sure that someone with more knowledge about boats should have a general idea or guideline.
Thanks for all the help! This is a truly great sight!

Steve.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Estimated cruise range on plane?

Any idea how many gph will be uses trolling at 1-3 mph 850 rpm.The fuel tank holds 77 gallons.

Ayuh,....

I would Think you can troll for Days on 77gal.s....

My little 4.3LX will burn Maybe a gallon an Hour, trolling...

 

[45Auto]

Re: Estimated cruise range on plane?

I would expect just below 2 MPG (12 or 13 GPH) at cruise speed on your boat.

Most likely real close to this Searay 26':

http://www.boatingmag.com/assets/download/BT0904_SeaRay.pdf

You'd probably be best off using the old rule "1/3 out, 1/3 in, 1/3 reserve" rather than distance in your situation.

 

[Don S]

Re: Estimated cruise range on plane?

With that load, and a 7.4, and you not knowing anything about the boats normal range, I sure wouldn't estimate anything over 1.5 miles per gallon while cruising. I think using the 1.0 mpg for cruising would be a better estimating number till you find out for sure.
Those big blocks are thirsty engines, especially if they haven't been tuned up lately.

 

[muskie hunter]

Re: Estimated cruise range on plane?

Thanks guys, this gives me an idea of what to expect. The engine has just been tuned up and runs very well. Usually after each outing I re fuel the boat for next time. This is my first summer with the boat and I didnt know what to expect.

Thanks Steve.