How do I figure out the correct horse power auxiliary engine to purchase for my boat?
A good rule of thumb to determine the correct power for your boat is as follows: Pleasure use – two horsepower per one thousand pounds of hull displacement (weight). Long range/world cruising – two and one half horsepower per one thousand pounds of hull displacement (weight). Example: Pleasure use vessel, hull displacement is 25,000 pounds – 2 horsepower times 25 equals 50 horsepower. A 50 horsepower engine should perform well. In this case, the Westerbeke 55B Four is a perfect choice!
