Shetland Saker what engine?

[johna]

A Yotty friend is looking to purchase the above for coastal use (Christchurch to Solent or Poole). Engine is a 50 hp. Is this sufficient to get on the plane with four on board? Shetland site states maximum engine as 115 hp. Thank you for any assistance.

 

[Kawasaki]

It will do if it is running ok and the hull is clean
70/ 80 would be nice.
Then once 'up' the helsman can throttle back and the boat and crew will feel more relaxed!

 

[johna]

Correction to first post

The present engine is 40hp not 50 as per my post. Would this make a significant difference?

 

[Kawasaki]

The present engine is 40hp not 50 as per my post. Would this make a significant difference?

Thing is the Saker will be quite an old boat
Nowt wrong with that but I bet it is heavier than it was when new!
I remember having a dash about in one in the early eighties
Said boat had a new 50 hp merc on
4 peeps aboard it coped ok.
40 would have ok with 2 on and not much gear.

I,m only guessing but from my experience a 40 would get 4 peeps and gear up on the plane ok eventually.
Your yotty mate probably won't want to dash about all over the place
But
A boat like the Saker is planing hull and is happier at planing speeds
Plus more efficient
Its ok at 6 knots but then in between no good till planing.
On yer Jack Jones no doubt it will be ok
Just will take its time to 'get up' with half the Yacht club aboard!!!

 

[johna]

Many thanks Kawasaki your comments are most helpful.

 

[Rum_Pirate]

It will be a big help to get up on the plane if you keep the weight (crew & passengers) far forward until you are planing. Then you can throttle back.

used to do it on a Shetland SunTrip with an old 65hp Mercury and 7 aboard.