When you buy a new boat, there are several other costs associated with your vessel, from filling up your fuel tank to procuring the proper maintenance tools and products. Luckily, your trip out on the water doesn’t have to guzzle fuel, if you know the best ways to reduce consumption. Save on fuel costs with your new boat by utilizing the following four tips.

Top Tips to Save on Boating Fuel

1. Watch for Excess Drag

If you have extra objects on your boat like a cockpit cover or bimini, make sure to move these when driving your vessel. These items can cause extra drag and increase wind resistance when your new boat is in motion, causing it to use more fuel than it would without these objects.

2. Get the Right Trim

The trim on your boat doesn’t just make for a smoother ride, but it also influences how efficiently your boat moves in the water. If you have the wrong trim on your boat, you may find the bow sticking out of the water more than it should be, which burns more fuel.

3. Remove Unnecessary Bulk

Another habit that impacts your fuel usage is the amount of weight you have on your boat when in the water. The heavier your boat is, the slower it will drive, and the more fuel it will consume when driving it. Remove any unnecessary bulk from your boat, whether it’s an extra cooler or old fishing gear.

4. Keep It Clean

Having a dirty boat can increase the drag when cutting through the water and making sharp turns. Even light dirt on the hull can cause your boat to lag when making turns or hitting high speeds. Strive to do a thorough cleaning annually, but always check for any built-up material on a monthly basis.

If you’re looking for a new boat, or want to upgrade your current vessel, turn to the professionals at Petzold's Marine Center in Portland, CT. For more than 70 years, this boat sales and service center has offered superior vessels from the top names, including Sabre, Back Cove, Edgewater, and Regal. To view the inventory, visit them online, or call (860) 342-1196 to speak with a representative.