boatmike
Well-known member
As usual there are a mix of sensible and silly answers on here. I moved from sail to power and bought an Aquastar 33 for a mix of sea and canal use. Nelsons are skinny and wet. Avoid. The Aquastar is much nicer but for reduced air draft in the canals you need to avoid flybridge versions. If you ONLY want to do canals twin screws are not ideal but if you want to go to sea then the reliability of twin engines is a big plus. In the canals you will progress at a tickover and have very low consumption. OK if you intend to go to sea afterwards and blow out any carbon but not ideal otherwise. Consumption at speeds over about 8 knots will rise significantly and at 18 knots expect close on a gallon per mile. Consumption generally is a function of horse power consumed and up to hull speed will be acceptable. Remember that very few boats stay in canals that long. When in the med that turn of speed is a wonderful security when required...... The conditions can change very quickly and running to harbour in a well found sea boat with two nice big diesels pushing you along is a happy feeling! Good luck with your search!I'm thinking of getting a motorboat which will double for sea and French canal use.
There is a Nelson 32 on the market which has twin 145HP engines. It would be a great sea boat but somewhat overpowered for canal use.
Can I have opinions on the Nelson (any other recommendations) and a realistic estimate of what the fuel consumption would be in the two areas of operation.
Thanks