Similar powers once hidden
There are many boats that are powered by 1000 hp or more. Only, until recently, the engines were hidden in the hold. They were inboard, often diesel with shaft lines for the most part. With the arrival of large outboard engines, the power is now displayed on the transom.
However, we don't propel boats with more horses. On the contrary. The performance of outboards, superior to that of inboards, limits the number of horses to be installed. For the same performance, a hull powered by an outboard will be less powerful than one powered by an inboard.
The advantage of limited and accessible maintenance
Technicians have made great strides in maintenance. On the 600 Mercury, all of the V12's maintenance points are accessible by lifting the cover on top of the engine. Directly from the boat. So there's no need to take the boat out of the water for all routine maintenance. And the exceptional maintenance, which requires taking the boat out of the water, is only done every 1000 hours. What a way to see the future!
A comfort of use
The outboard, with its flexibility and smooth mounting, offers great comfort for the crew. In addition, the installation on the transom frees up a large hold usually occupied by inboards. This provides more space for the accommodation (storage or additional cabin).
A reduction in emissions
More modern, using the latest technologies, outboards limit polluting discharges into the sea. More efficient, they also limit the use of inappropriate power.
A gain in performance
An outboard offers more thrust than an inboard. This is even more apparent on the new 600 hp Mercury, which has a gearbox. The small gear makes it easier to get out of the way and the second gear allows you to reach high speeds. Shifting from one gear to another is automatic (like automotive automatic transmissions). It is transparent for the driver. The fuel consumption/performance ratio is then much more favorable for the outboard.
All these technical data, based on the example of the 600 hp Mercury outboard, highlight the interest that manufacturers have in offering their boats with outboard engines.
