V-Drive is a variation on the inboard theme. Steering is accomplished via a movable rudder, located farther back from the propeller blades. The driveshaft passes through the hull and connects the engine to a fixed propeller. The traditional inboard, sometimes called a direct drive, positions the engine in the center of the hull to help maintain a level running attitude. This is particularly concerning since most people when headed toward something they don’t want to impact they instinctively cut power which renders a jet marine engine unable to fully steer. Vague handling and steer backwards in reverse.

Like a giant vacuum cleaner, they suck things into the jet which often cause damage.Burns much more fuel than an outboard or stern drive.They do consume more fuel the outboards or stern drives and are often a bit louder especially at mid to high speeds. They also offer a clean, uninterrupted transom ideal for fishing. Jets typically can venture into shallower waters, boast rapid acceleration, and feature nimble handling. Jets have no exposed propeller, relying instead on an enclosed impeller and jet nozzle to deliver the engine’s thrust. Jet power has also made inroads into the marine power market. Lower center of gravity for better control and handling.Best access to rear of boat and water for swimming or water sports.Because stern drives in cruisers and bowriders/sport boats offer the best accessibility to the rear of the boat they are an excellent choice in these applications. This protects the engine from corrosion and dramatically increases the longevity of the engine. It’s OK though because the extra water needed is only an inch or two.Īn important note to consider… Some stern drive manufacturers offer fresh water cooling which is a system that does not allow salt water into the engine for cooling. They do weigh a bit more than outboards so naturally will cause the boat to draw or require more water depth to float. Stern drives are in some cases are quieter and in most cases handle better than outboards due to their lower center of gravity. The swim platform / rear lounge combination are awesome when anchoring at a beach or secluded island.

Stern drives tuck the engine below a lounge area (sunpad) or the engine box at the back of the boat, and allow for an easily accessible and an uninterrupted swim platform. Stern drive power is the go-to engine for most bowrider and sport boat manufacturers.

Best when boat is stored floating in the water.

Generally speaking, outboards do allow access to more shallow water which comes in handy in Florida. Outboards can also be fully lifted, or “trimmed”, out of the water, and come in a wide variety of horsepowers up to almost 500! They are smaller and lighter than stern drives but do interfere with the use and accessibility to the rear of the boat. OUTBOARDSĪ great match for saltwater, outboards create additional room in the main seating area, or “cockpit”, and storage space by positioning the engine behind the back panel of the boat, also called the “transom”. Another equally important consideration is corrosion resistance due to our salt water environment. Why is that important? We’ll discuss that and much more as we discover the pro’s and con’s of marine power choices below…įor our customers in Florida, quiet, easy to service, and functionality are all very important consideration in choosing your power. Although stern drive has been historically more popular worldwide, outboard power has grown immensely as their horsepower range has increased and their weight decreased. Outboard, stern drive or I/O and jet are common choices. Power boats come in many types and sizes and so do your engine choices.

Inboard motor for sale