On the other hand, many outboard models offer spacious lazarette storage and manufacturers have designed ways to enhance the swim platform area.Ĭertainly one of the biggest advantages to outboard power is the fact that outboards can be tilted up to run in very shallow water. In most applications, stern drive units are underneath the swim platform, providing better protection from the drive when jumping into the water or swimming around the boat.Īs an added benefit, the extra padding around the stern drive engine reduces noise, providing a more comfortable ride in a stern drive boat. Another benefit of stern drive power is safety. Further, there is no engine to interfere with rear visibility. There is no wasted space with outboard splash wells. This affords much better access to the water and better lounging. Understand that the purchase price will usually be lower for stern drives, but over time, they will cost more.īecause the engine portion is typically underneath a sun pad on the stern of the boat, stern drives have much better space utilization in the aft. Additionally, stern drive engines require winterization if a hard freeze is expected. However, the annual maintenance of outboards is generally less.įurthermore, stern drive engines will require exhaust manifolds, usually in 5-7 years in a salt water environment. Typically, the initial purchase price of outboard power is greater than stern drives. Now, potential buyers can better choose the boat configuration that meets the family’s needs and match that to their choice of power. The annual maintenance of outboards is generally less Most family boat manufacturers have added outboard power options to their lineups as well, bringing more options to local boaters than just center consoles. Outboards are the primary choice for fishing boats and certainly are the most popular choice for boats in the Lowcountry. These types of drive systems are found mostly in family runabout boats and cruisers because of their user friendly layout. Stern drive propulsion systems basically have a marinized automotive engine inside the boat with an out-drive on the outside of the boat. Understanding the pros and cons of each system will help families find the right boat for their situation. Many people considering the purchase of a new boat often ask about the differences between outboard and stern drive (or inboard/outboard) propulsion.
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