One of the boats I'm looking at for our next "home on the water" is a
commercial ex-government
boat. It is 57' long, 15' beam and 40 tons. It's a MONSTER, which is great because we can live out at
anchor year round with this one even in the most harsh
Maine winters.
My question is regarding powering this vessel. It's basically a bare
hull. No
power, no systems, nothing really to speak of. I have to install it all.
I wanted to see if I could solicit input on this possible
project. I'm not 100% sure I'm going to get this
boat, but this thread will help with that decision.
First, it's starting from scratch. The
engine was removed. There are controls and a wheelhouse, but no
engine. Also, the "living space" is already constructed and was part of the vessel when it was built.
A good dollar savings and also good for stabilty. No added top-heavy weight.
Powering Question:
I am looking at a Detroit
Diesel 6-71 @ 250hp for $5500. I hope to achieve 8 knots guzzling
fuel, but back off to 6-7 knots to save
fuel. Is this realistic? Is it the right size engine? I'm going by a book I have that specifies engine size as a function of tonnage and desired top speed. Any
diesel specialists that are on this forum are welcome to solicit me for a
project here. The boat is in VA. I need to install the engine and I would imagine it's going to be tricky with the crane, mounts, etc...
Powering/Systems Question:
What about an
electric system? I have to get a genset and HUGE
battery bank to be able to put out our much larger
power requirements. Some things we want to do living at
anchor are: microwave leftovers from batts, run a small 750 watt
heater for 15 mins from batts, have a semi-normal
refrigerator, etc... some upgrades in convenience since we are here to
work and
work hard. No play, no cruising. Since we have to generate massive power anyway, I was thinking why not go fully
electric (with genset as long range cruising engergy source)? What size
electric motor would be correct to propel this vessel? Does anyone know?
Any other inputs as to setting up this vessel's
propulsion system would be very welcome. I'm dabbling in an area I have little if any clue and need to learn pretty fast. We are expecting a closing soon on the
Gulfstar and a
purchase of the next vessel in fairly short order.
Thanks!