cost to run

[timv]

would a princess 41 cost a lot more to run than a princess 38 or phantom 38 ? Not sure of the actual length of any of these boats and how much difference the extra couple of feet make to fuel, maintenance etc....many thanks
Tim

 

[Sneds]

I wouldn't think there is a vast difference but I guess it depends on what engines you have.

 

[Greg2]

As Sneds says, it will spend upon the engines that are fitted and direct comparison is difficult. That said fuel costs are likely to be similar and if you work on circa 1mpg at cruising speed you won't be far wrong. All will be a lot better at displacement speeds and again are likely to be similar. Newer engines may make a difference and overall the type of cruising you do will have the greatest influence on fuel consumption.

Servicing costs will be influenced by the make of engine.....for example VP parts tend to be expensive whereas Perkins are cheap as chips (had both and currently have Perkins). Age and condition will also come into play...a well looked after boat will probably involve less cost in maintenance than one that has been neglected.

I think that the Princess 41 is an older boat i.e. 1980's....not sure if the two 38's you mention are of a similar era but if they are younger models that may have a bearing. Worth saying that age isn't a negative factor per se...our Broom is over 20 years old and is in fine fettle but then previous owners shouldered the costs of major refurbishment (canopy, upholstery etc). We have still spent money though...the curse of owning a boat is always looking to improve it...well it is for us!

Length will have an effect upon mooring fees of course and how much will depend upon where you do you boating. It can also be a factor when cruising e.g. getting a mooring. Insurance tends to be based more upon value so the additional length shouldn't make any difference.

Overall the difference between a 38 footer and a 41 may not be massive, primarily because some costs are the same/similar regardless of length (e.g. servicing/maintenance). Aside from moorings and inland waterway tolls our 41 footer isn't costing significantly more than our last boat, which was 35 feet. In fact mechanical maintenance is better because we have shafts as opposed to outdrives but that is another (well rehearsed) debate altogether

To summarise direct comparisons are difficult as there are a number of factors to consider such as age, condition, your attitude to upgrades etc. Hope this helps......