Easter in Australia is made for boating. Long weekends, warm weather that is starting to ease, and waterways that call for early starts and late finishes. But this year, there’s a bit more awareness around fuel. Global fuel pressures have nudged prices higher and made every litre feel a little more valuable.
This article aims to help you to get more out of what you put in. Fuel prices are influenced by global supply chains, refining capacity and demand is out of your control. What is in your control is how efficiently your boat uses that fuel.
Find your boat’s sweet spot
Most boats have a cruising range where they’re running efficiently without working too hard.
- Sit just on plane, not pushing maximum speed
- Watch your RPM rather than your speed
- Aim for smooth, steady throttle instead of constant adjustments
Running flat out might get you there faster, but it will burn through fuel far quicker than you think.
Trim it right, save more than you expect
A small trim adjustment can make a noticeable difference.
- Trim too low and the boat drags
- Trim too high and the prop loses bite
- The goal is a level ride with minimal wake and resistance
If the boat feels like it’s working hard, it probably is.
Lighten the load
Easter trips tend to mean extra gear, extra people and extra everything.
- Remove anything you don’t need
- Keep weight balanced across the boat
- Avoid carrying full tanks of water or unnecessary equipment
More weight means more drag, and more drag means more fuel.
A clean hull is free efficiency
If your boat has been sitting, there’s a good chance growth has built up underneath.
- Marine growth can increase fuel use significantly
- A clean hull and prop help the boat move as it was designed to
- Even small imperfections in the prop can impact performance
This is one of the easiest wins before a long weekend.
Plan your day, not just your destination
A little thought before heading out goes a long way.
- Work with tides instead of against them
- Avoid long idle times where possible
- Map your route to reduce unnecessary distance
- Factor in wind and chop, which both increase fuel burn
It’s not about limiting where you go, just getting there smarter.
Keep your engine working for you
Regular servicing isn’t just about reliability, it’s about efficiency.
- Clean filters and correct oil improve combustion
- Well-tuned engines use less fuel for the same output
- Small issues can quietly increase fuel consumption over time
If it’s been a while between services, it’s worth addressing.
Enjoy more, worry less
Fuel might be part of the conversation right now, but it shouldn’t take away from what boating is all about.
With a few smart adjustments, most boaters can stretch their fuel further without sacrificing the experience. In many cases, you’ll not only save fuel, you’ll end up with a smoother, more enjoyable ride.
At Onshore Marine, we’re here to help you run better, smoother and more efficiently on the water. Whether it’s a quick check, a service, or advice before the long weekend, we’ve got you covered.
Enjoy the break. Make every litre count.