This is a no BS assessment of my experience with Pod Drive powered yachts, from my personal experience as well as talking with numerous captains and owners. Mercruiser Zeus Pod Drive Volvo Penta IPS Pod Drive Since hitting the scene for the first time in 2006, Pod Drives have been a huge subject of discussion throughout the industry...are they truly the next evolution in propulsion technology that will knock out the ages old shaft drives? Let's take a look at the pods themselves without all the fancy computerized technology. They are basically based off the old sterndrive technology that came around in the 1960's and is still around today...a system that reduces drag and has a more direct line of thrust than traditional shaft drives, resulting in better fuel economy … [Read more...]
Yacht Controller: Is it Something You Need?
The yacht controller can truly be a great asset to your yacht and enhance your boating experience. Docking and low speed maneuvering is made simple so that even the most novice captain can look like a pro. The yacht controller is used to position your yacht precisely where you want from any vantage point on the vessel...you are able to move freely around your yacht while maintaining total control of the engines and thrusters. From my experience I have heard nothing but good things about the system, from yacht owner-operators to professionally captained ones. Owner-operators can dock their yacht even in rough sea conditions with ease, taking away the hassle and anxiety of docking. Professional captains love the system because it makes their job much easier and frees … [Read more...]
The Different Types of Yacht Propulsion: Benefits and Drawbacks
In this article I will review the different types of propulsion found in yachts and the benefits of each. This will help to understand why certain yachts have the powertrain they do. 1. Straight Shaft Inboard 2. V-Drive Inboard 3. Jet Drive 4. Surface Drive 5. Pod Drive 1. Straight Shaft Inboard Illustration of a Straight Shaft Inboard Yacht Straight Shaft inboards are the most traditional type of propulsion in use today. It is comprised of a rear-facing engine connected to a transmission which has a driveshaft going straight out of the bottom of the boat. Running Gear of a Straight Shaft Inboard Yacht See in the photo above a boat hauled out of the water the shaft coming out of the bottom of the boat. It is held in place by a strut right in front of the … [Read more...]
Different Types of Yachts Explained
In this article, I hope to dispel the confusion surrounding the categories of yachts that exist and explain what each means. There is definitely a lot of overlap in the categories or “types” out there... The types below are put into these categories: 1. Express, Express Cruiser, Cruiser, Sports Cruiser 2. Flybridge, Sedan, Sedan Bridge, Sport Bridge 3. Motor Yacht, Pilothouse Motor Yacht, Cockpit Motor Yacht, Skylounge 4. Tri-Deck, Mega Yacht 5. Sportfish, Express Sportfish, Flybridge Sportfish, Convertible 1. Express, Express Cruiser, Cruiser, Sports Cruiser These are all terms to describe a yacht with a single deck above the hull and living quarters below. This type is known for its sporty and sleek look, like the sports car of the yacht world. The below … [Read more...]
Buying A Pre-Owned Yacht
In this article you will learn the steps involved when purchasing a Yacht available for sale as a brokered (pre-owned) boat. This is a basic guide and cannot act as a substitute for a trained and knowledgeable broker, but will give you an understanding of the process. Step 1. Finding the Right Type, Make and Model. There are a lot of different yacht models and types to choose from. I would start by thinking about what type of boating you imagine yourself doing and what type of layout would best suit your needs. This is where a knowledgeable broker can really help point you in the right direction, through experience he can give you real advice on what boat you could make the best use of. As a start, ask yourself these questions: What is your perfect day on the water? Will I be doing a … [Read more...]