Shetland 4+2 at sea

[crofty1984]

Hi I was thinking of getting a shetland 4+2 mainly for inland work, but was thinking of taking it on the coast (picking my weather of course!) Thinking mainly Lowestoft-Gt Yarmouth area.
I have a feeling if I want to do more my 15hp outboard won't be adequate. May get a bigger one (25-30hp) anyway.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Dan

 

[tinkicker0]

If you pick your weather, don't see why not. As you say, 15 hp is a bit weedy, 25 - 30 will be better and less stressed.
Perhaps you can keep your 15 as a backup if the main quits.

Is this a cathedral type hull? You may find the ride a bit harsh on anything over a very mild chop if so, but pootling about will be fine.

 

[DownWest]

Hi Crofty,
I used to take a 520 on a yearly trip from Vilamoura to Spain. Owner was a bit fearful of the open sea, but it had to get out once a year for registration needs. I set off early so it was flat and no probs. Good seaboat. OK, it had a 70hp and a 5hp reserve, but that is only a question of speed. Distance around 60/70 nm. Made sure I had plenty of fuel in two remote tanks for quick change over.
Interestingly, my old man did the 'reverse design' to get Shetlands through the EU regs.
A

 

[Rum_Pirate]

We used to own this Shetland 'Suntrip' model, Serial #2221.

Not as large as the shetland 4+2

It was powered by a 65hp Mercury and then a 75 Yamaha.
Mind you the stern was strengthened.


If you go out in open water chose your weather wisely. IE Do not go out is rough weather.

We (usually 4) often went fishing on the open Atlantic (Windward side of the Caribbean islands).

A great boat, always felt very safe in it.

Worst case we ever had was trolling fishing lines at 4knts and going over a largish wave at the edge of the drop-off. The rear of the top of the engine cover was under water while the bow still rose, up, up up.
She still rose and floated over the wave.