What they are able to do with this Cobalt R33 Surf boat is basically offer a two-in-one situation: The family that wants to use a traditional runabout so they can do everything they normally do, plus it’s able to surf, which has been really favorable. 

The key feature of Volvo Penta’s Twin Forward Drive system is that the props are mounted on the forward side of the drive rather than facing aft on the traditional stern drive. So it pulls the boat through the water, rather than pushing it. 

An added benefit of the props facing forward is that they’re working in clean water, which adds to their efficiency and even top-end speed when you’re working with the surf package. When you trim the forward drives up they actually direct thrust down, dropping the stern of the boat further into the water, increasing the displacement and helping to produce a larger wave to surf on. 

In fact, with the Twin Forward Drive system on a boat as big as the Cobalt R33 surf, you don’t even need a ballast system. With Volvo Penta’s Duoprop system that means it has counter-rotating propellers, which help when you are handling at the dock, or trying to load the boat on the trailer, making it that much more maneuverable. 

Volvo Penta’s Joystick Surfing system is a fantastic feature to have on the boat. It really helps with closed-quarter handling around the docks or in the marina and now the operator can use this to control the boat with one hand while in Surf Mode.

Volvo Penta also includes autopilot so you can set your Waypoint and follow a route just by pressing a button. In their partnership with Volvo Penta, Cobalt optimized the R33 Surf to create a clean and adjustable wig that’s ideal for surfers of all levels. Cobalt has long been one of the gold standard companies for building day boats. 

The beauty of having the surf package in the day boat is you get all the benefits and cruising comfort of having a boat of this style. You can overnight on it and you can bring your whole family aboard, plus you can surf from it.

Learn More:

• Volvo Penta Unveils Joystick Surfing
• Find Your Next Cobalt R33 at River Valley Marine

The post Discover Unmatched Versatility: Cruise in Comfort and Surf in Style With the Cobalt R33 Surf Powered by Volvo Penta appeared first on Boating Mag.

Read Next: Must-See Marine Electronics at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show

Mercury Racing 150R

The new 150R, as well as the 200R, are V6 engines designed to deliver exceptional hole shot and acceleration without the weight of a V8. Transient Spark Technology electronically adjusts ignition timing as needed, producing additional torque for faster hole shot and acceleration. At full throttle, the 150R develops up to 6000 RPM, while the 200R tops out at 6400 rpm. Read more here.

Where: Convention Center 2012; Bahia Mar 2055

Volvo Penta Twin FWD Drive

Volvo Penta’s FWD drive system revolutionized the ability of recreational boats to double as surf boats thanks to its forward facing propeller design. Now, with the Twin FWD system this technology is available for boats up to 38 feet. When combined with Volvo Penta’s Joystick Wakesurfing, it’s a system to help everyone catch waves.

Where: Bahia Mar 1203

Honda BF350

The BF350 [https://marine.honda.com/outboards/models/highpower/bf350]  is Honda’s largest outboard to date, a V8 with a newly developed 5-liter-­displacement block with a ­fully balanced, 60-degree offset crankshaft, built using the same alloy and strength specifications as the engine in the Acura NSX high-performance supercar, according to Honda. Read more about it here.

Where: Convention Center 1223

Suzuki Stealth Outboards

Suzuki offers eight outboard models with its unique black matte finish that looks super cool on the water while still providing quiet, efficient and powerful performance. Read more here.

Where: Convention Center C39

Trolling Motors

You’re going to want to keep up with the latest in trolling motor technology with Garmin and Minn Kota. We have a full write-up online here.

These new trolling motors can up your fishing game tremendously.

Where: On several boats at the Bahia Mar and Convention Center

Yamaha XTO 450

Yamaha has several of its outboards on display at the show, led by its largest engine, the XTO 450 (read about it here). The XTO 450 is designed for big-boat applications to get you safely to the canyons and back.

Where: Bahia Mar 1207, 2029

The post Must-See Engines at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show appeared first on Boating Mag.

Volvo Penta is redefining the capabilities of joystick technology with the introduction of a joystick for wake boats – Joystick Surfing for Twin Forward Drive, gasoline-powered boats. Joystick Surfing builds on Volvo Penta’s Joystick Driving feature, released to the market in 2023, which enables full control of the boat without using the steering wheel or throttle, allowing for precise single-hand maneuvering.

This latest advancement works in conjunction with the Watersports Control display while in Surf Mode, creating a system that incorporates new functionalities specifically designed to enhance the surfing experience in wake boats, offering exceptional comfort and intuitive boating experience for both seasoned and new watersports enthusiasts.

Wake Boating Made Simple

By integrating Joystick Surfing with the Watersport Control display, boaters can simply select their preferred surf profile in Surf Mode and activate the joystick to begin cruising. The functionality helps to enhance the operator experience and maneuverability at lower speeds, while wake surfers enjoy their perfect waves. The Joystick Surfing feature also offers driving versatility with steering, throttle and gear control at higher speeds when in regular cruising.

“Joystick Surfing combines a range of innovations to ensure a comfortable and relaxing boating experience for the entire journey – whether you are crushing the waves on your board or launching through them while savoring the view,” said Jens Bering, vice president of marine sales for Volvo Penta North America. “By removing complexities and expanding user capabilities, this new solution is designed to make maneuvering a wake boat more effortless and enjoyable than ever.”

Navigating New Audiences

Joystick Surfing provides wake boating fans with an advanced level of control and precision to deliver a truly unique watersports experience – where the operator has the option to maneuver with ease, without engaging the steering wheel or control lever. A groundbreaking innovation for the marine industry, Volvo Penta’s latest technology will help remove barriers and open doors for new boating and watersports enthusiasts, particularly for forward drive boats.

“Joystick Surfing is perfect for modern, tech-savvy boaters who thrive while operating intuitive and easy-to-use systems,” added Bering. “Catered to help meet evolving, user-centric industry demands, this cutting-edge technology sets a new standard for the design of innovative and versatile helm stations that are transforming the watersports market.”

Read Next: Using a Forward-Facing Sterndrive for Tow Sports

Wake Boats – Anchored in Comfort and Safety

With Joystick Surfing, the joystick can be conveniently installed on the armrest of the driver’s seat, ensuring an ergonomic driving posture and comfort over an extended period of time. This keeps the operator involved in the watersport action and aware of the surfer while making easy course corrections with one hand, providing an ideal solution for wake boats.

Smart safety features also help to ensure a smooth journey for boaters. If the joystick is released in reverse, it will automatically default to a neutral position for safety. Joystick Surfing makes course corrections with the autopilot by turning a couple of degrees with a twist of the wrist.

Forward Is the Only Way

Joystick Surfing is paired with the Volvo Penta Twin Forward Drive system, an extension of its forward-facing, counter-rotating prop design with gasoline engines. This powerful combination enables all the benefits of the Forward Drive – superior maneuverability and efficiency, quick acceleration and time to plane, powerful thrust and performance, and noticeable onboard comfort – to be applied to larger boats. This equates to bigger wakes, additional passengers and more fun for watersports lovers, making it a significant leap for Forward Drive boats.

Joystick Surfing expands Volvo Penta’s innovation in joystick technology, which has been an integral part of the company’s trademark helm-to-propeller approach since 2012. The introduction of Joystick Surfing with Twin Forward Drive and additional enhancements to the Volvo Penta portfolio drive home the company’s commitment to make boating more intuitive, accessible and customizable.

The post Volvo Penta Debuts Joystick Wakesurfing appeared first on Boating Mag.

Many boaters live in the age of outboards. These engines are often considered the only choice for center-console saltwater fishing boats. Yet Volvo Penta is bent on opening boaters’ eyes to the advantages of alternative marine power for saltwater fishing, namely Volvo Penta’s diesel inboards coupled with Aquamatic Duoprop sterndrives.

To prove the point, Volvo Penta invited me to spend a few days fishing with them in the waters of Nantucket Sound, south of Chatham, Massachusetts, targeting bluefish, striped bass and false ­albacore.

We fished aboard two center-consoles, including a Solace 415CS powered by twin Volvo Penta diesels. The second center-console was a Southport 30 FE, and that was the boat which really captured my attention and admiration. 

The Southport featured a single-engine configuration. A 440 hp Volvo Penta D6 diesel was mounted amidships ­under the seat console and connected to an Aquamatic DPI sterndrive with a ­jackshaft. This completely freed up the aft cockpit to ­create a ­wide-open fishing area, with no ­outboards to ­obstruct lines. A big swim platform let us walk aft through a transom door to follow hooked fish across the stern. 

The Volvo Penta D6 is a ­super-sophisticated turbo- and super-charged common-rail inline-six cylinder engine with twin overhead cams and 5.5 liters of displacement. If the 440 hp sounds a bit light for the 11,864-pound Southport, remember that a diesel generates far more torque than an equivalent-horsepower gas outboard, and so the diesel can swing a bigger propeller—in this case, an H5 stainless-steel Duoprop set—resulting in ­solid performance numbers.

Running to and from the legendary shallow bars and roiling rips of Nantucket Sound confirmed this axiom. The Volvo diesel propelled the 30 FE to 20 mph in 4.8 seconds and 30 mph in 8.1 seconds, and it achieved a top speed of 43.1 mph at 3,800 rpm. The boat was quiet and smooth underway, with none of the loud rattle or smelly exhaust traditionally associated with diesel engines.

That strong acceleration came in handy when one of Nantucket’s infamous rogue waves reared up suddenly on our port beam. Volvo’s Jens Bering was at the wheel, and immediately turned into the wave and hammered the electronic throttle to climb the face of the 12-foot roller. Without the diesel torque and superb control offered by the Duoprop drive, not to ­mention Bering’s quick ­response, the episode may have ended ­quite differently.

Speaking of control, I was impressed with the Volvo Penta joystick system for the single diesel sterndrive. The 30 FE was the first in the US to offer this system. Steering, gear control, bow thruster and throttle are controlled ­easily with just one hand. To engage the system, you press the Docking button on the base of the joystick control. The system can also hold the boat’s speed and heading at the push of a button. 

The joystick was mounted in the armrest of the helm seat of the 30 FE, which made using it ultra-easy, intuitive and comfortable as we maneuvered to troll lures around Nantucket’s ­treacherous rips. The Aquamatic hydraulic ­transmission allows for smooth, quiet shifting and pleasantly good ­low-speed trolling functionality. Some diesels have a ­tendency to troll too fast. Not so with this system. 

I marveled over the ­optimal fuel efficiency: 2.5 mpg at 2,800 rpm and 27.9 mph, resulting in a cruising range of 359 miles based on 90 percent of its smaller 160-gallon diesel fuel tank. For comparison’s sake, an earlier test of a twin 300 hp Mercury outboard version of this boat achieved optimal efficiency of 1.6 mpg at 3,500 rpm and 26.7 mph, resulting in a cruising range of 334 miles based on 90 ­percent of its larger 232-gallon ­gasoline fuel tank. 

Read Next: Volvo Penta’s Diesel Engines and Drives

The biggest issue that ­saltwater boaters have with sterndrives is the inability to tilt the drive out of the water, as it done with outboards, while docked between trips. To prevent sterndrive corrosion in ­areas such as New England, Volvo Penta’s Arjen ­Steegstra points out a special paint process and ­Active Corrosion ­Protection system engineered for ­Aquamatic sterndrives. 

“The ACP system has been used on our IPS boats for more than 12 years,” Steegstra says. “It protects the drive from galvanic corrosion without sacrificial anodes, and offers a lot of peace of mind for our customers who boat in both ­brackish and salt water.” Of course, those who use a ­high-and-dry service, or own a boat lift, needn’t concern themselves.

In an age when filling up a boat can max out a credit card, it’s nice to know that the Volvo Penta D6 diesel DPI power ­system can save you money at the fuel dock, as well as open up the aft cockpit for better fishing access, and do it all without sacrificing ­performance or easy handling.

The post Volvo Penta D6 Diesel DPI appeared first on Boating Mag.

Yamaha

There are plenty of chances to look at Yamaha’s hot new F350, either in the convention center or for a sea trial at one of the many boats in-water at the Venetian Marina. Yamaha will have plenty of other choices to look at in the marina, too, from its F200s up to its F450s.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Yamaha Booth; Venetian Marina, Yamaha Dock

yamahaoutboards.com

Mercury

Mercury has a lot going on at the show, including the announcement of its ne single engine joystick control, what’s new with its Avator electric outboard lineup, and of course the all-powerful Mercury Racing 500R outboard (an MPI Award winner). Mercury Racing engines will be available off-site via appointment.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Mercury Booth; Venetian Marina, Mercury Dock

mercurymarine.com

Honda

Honda is making a splash in the big outboard market with its new BF350 (another one of our MPI winners). The powerful V8 delivered quiet performance in our recent testing in varied conditions on pontoon boats and center consoles.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, booth MB2426; Venetian Marina, Slips 501 and 502

marine.honda.com

Avikus

Avikus, pioneers in developing autonomous boat technology, is making a major announcement about its deal with the boat builder Aquasport. Avikus’s Neuboat is an AI-based software and sensor system that helps boats self-dock and navigate.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Booth MB 3016.

avikus.ai

ePropulsion

ePropulsion will be displaying its new eLite motor, a 500W electric outboard touted as an alternative to small internal combustion engines. At just under three-feet in length and weighing 14.7-pounds including the built-in battery, the eLite stores easily and the one-click quick-release bracket allows for installation and removal in a matter of seconds. Sport mode adds an additional 50% boost in power for challenging conditions bringing the top speed to over five miles per hour.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park near Nautical Ventures “Aqua Zone”

epropulsion.com

Indmar

Indmar is introducing a new boat manufacturer that has signed on to build models powered by its lineup of Raptor inboard engines based on Ford engine blocks. We’re looking forward to who else is choosing to roll with the powerful lineup of inboards.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Booth MB2090

indmar.com

Flux Marine

Electric outboard maker Flux has paired with the Highfield SP660, offering ample space for all your favorite boating activities with family and friends. Paired with our 100HP motor, this package delivers powerful and silent acceleration without ever having to visit a fuel dock again. With a top speed of over 30mph and a cruising range of 30 miles (75 miles at trolling speed), you can enjoy your day on the water to the fullest and simply recharge overnight at your dock slip.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Booth 1244

fluxmarine.com

Cox Diesel Outboards

Cox, a diesel outboard pioneer, is touting a look at latest advancements in its diesel lineup, with increased power and speed capabilities.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Booth MB2412

coxmarine.com

Volvo Penta

Come check out the new Regal 38, the largest surf boat, on display at the Volvo Penta dock at the Venetian Marina. The Regal 38 will be propelled by twin Volvo Penta Forward Drives, which changed the game by allowing family bowriders and runabouts to become surf boats.

Where: Venetian Marina, Volvo Penta Dock

volvopenta.com

Sharrow Propellers

Sharrow is offering demo rides to interested customers during the Miami International Boat Show. They will be operating out of the Miami Beach Marina at 300 Alton Road, from February 14-18. To reserve a demo ride, click here.

Mercury Avator 75 and 110e

The Mercury Avator 75e and 110e electric outboards are the newest in the Avator line. Complete with highly modular and “touch-safe” batteries, power centers, remote controls and chargers. Mercury will also showcase its new high-voltage electric concept.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Booth MB1700

Suzuki

Suzuki will be unveiling a new “stealth” look for five models in its outboard lineup-the DF115BS inline 4-cylinder, the DF150S 4-cylinder, the 4-cylinder DF200S, the V6 DF250S, and the new DF250ATS. Be among the first to see the new lineup at the show.

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Booth MB1914

suzukimarine.com

The post Must-See Engines at the 2024 Miami International Boat Show appeared first on Boating Mag.

Read Next: About the Boating Marine Power Innovation Awards

Volvo Penta and Group Beneteau Plug-In Hybrid System

Groupe Beneteau and Volvo Penta collaborated to develop a diesel plug-in hybrid system for boats. We traveled to Sweden to sea trial the system as installed in a Jeanneau NC 37.

This system impressed us for its ability to power the boat to planing speed using diesel IC engines, while allowing its owner to cruise at slow speeds using electric power. A surprise benefit we discovered during tests is that the electric motors can be engaged simultaneously with the IC engines to make getting on plane even faster. Additionally, the battery installed allows enjoying silent electric power in an anchorage instead of using a generator.

For integrating diesel engines, electric motors, and a battery system in such a useful and effective way, we award Volvo Penta and Groupe Beneteau with a Marine Power Innovation Award.

Honda BF 350 Outboard

Honda’s new BF350 ramps-up the owner experience for large outboard engines.

We tested this engine in a variety of scenarios aboard two different boats: a SeaVee 29 and Tahoe 2585 pontoon boat. It delivers outstanding acceleration to plane and while up and going, thanks to an offset crank shaft and proprietary innovations like its BLAST system. Hit the throttle and this engine makes the boat jump with a quicker step than some other outboards. Furthermore, it’s not just ultra-responsive, the power delivered is super smooth.

Then consider the noise of the engine. It’s not so much that the volume, in decibels produced by the Honda BF350, may be quieter than those of other engines. Decibels measure noise quantity. What impressed us more was the quality of that sound: the Honda produces a pleasing note.

See and Hear Honda’s BF 350: 2024 Tahoe 2585 Cascade

Other features that ramp up the owner experience include being agnostic with respect to electronics. That is, the BF 350 can display its data on the MFD of your choice, without need for a gateway. This makes the BF 350 an excellent candidate for boaters seeking to repower because they would not need to replace their electronics when they repower their boats.

For these reasons, we award Honda Marine with Marine Power Innovation Award.

Garmin Force Kraken Trolling Motors

Garmin’s Force Kraken trolling motors advance the technology of trolling motors while also advancing the owner experience of using an electric trolling motor.

The brushlees Force Kraken is up to 37 percent more efficient than competitive brushed motors. It won’t fuzz up fish-finder screens with static. It has the ability to spin the prop backward to hasten response time and provide more control to the boat owner. Multiband GPS improves anchor lock. At the low end, the Force Kraken decelerates the motor within a meter of the desired location using reverse prop spin. At the high end, the Kraken applies more aggressive motor speed for improved performance in challenging seas, important as so many coastal anglers now use trolling motors.

Read More About the Garmin Force Kraken: New Bow-Mount Brushless Trolling Motors

For increasing electrical efficiency, for diminishing the static that other trolling motors can create on fishfinder screens, for the ability to spin the prop in reverse, and more, we award Garmin a Marine Power Innovation Award. Congratulations!

Rotax 1630 ACE 325 HP

We do not honor the Rotax 1630 ACE engine with an MPI Award simply because, at 325 horsepower, it sets a new benchmark for PWC power.

Our On-Water Test: New 325 hp Rotax 1630 ACE Engine

We are impressed with the way BRP re-engineered this entire jet-propulsion powertrain to achieve an astounding performance goal. Engineers for Rotax in Austria and BRP in Canada collaborated in drafting a jet pump impeller design with a thrust curve capable of propelling the new Sea-Doo RXT-X and RXP-X watercraft models from zero to 60 mph in a mind-bending 3.4 seconds. They then built up an engine capable of spinning that impeller with the required authority while maintaining the reliability, durability and warranty we expect from an OEM product. Every element of this engine – from the block to the intake – is stronger and more efficient than the previous 300-hp 1630 ACE engine.

A new centrifugal supercharger is driven directly from the crankshaft through a new planetary gear set within the supercharger housing which permits an astounding 100,000 rpm from the impeller. The new 75 mm impeller is 44 percent smaller than the previous 135 mm impeller, resulting in a more compact housing. The new design eliminates the friction clutch that has been a service issue on the previous supercharger. Despite an increase in boost pressure from 12.8 psi to 15.2 psi, Rotax says air temperature at the supercharger outlet is reduced by 50 degrees F, and cooler air makes more power.

For advancing the state of the art in PWC propulsion, we award an MPI Award to Rotax.

Congratulations!

Mercury Racing 500R Outboard

Outboard advancements usually involve horsepower increases. Mercury Racing’s 500R impressed us with its power and performance, but also because of the technological advancements it developed to make that performance possible.

Our On-Water Test: Mercury Racing 500R Outboard

While the supercharger, which is belt-driven, helps deliver gobs of torque, the most notable advance may be the humidity sensor.

Any boater who runs outboards knows that performance and power can drop off as humidity increases. This technology allows the engine ECM to combine humidity, air-pressure and air-temperature data to determine the ideal spark timing. It is the first marine engine with humidity compensation. The maker claims up to a 30 percent increase in power as a result.

Other innovations include the Advanced Racing Core (ARC), with a stronger transom plane and adjustment via seven mounting holes, giving boaters more height adjustment. An enhanced trim system features two primary hydraulic rams, plus two new booster rams for added trim authority.

For advancing the technology of outboard engines, as well as marine engines as a whole, we are pleased to award Mercury Racing an MPI Award for its 500R outboard.

Power-Pole Move Trolling Motors

Power-Pole (JL Marine) MOVE trolling motors offer a GPS-driven, electrically-steered guidance system that automatically chops power and reverses engine direction when the motor has wound up its power cord. As such, there is no spinning of the motor to shake up anglers standing on the casting deck.

Our Review: Move Trolling Motors From Power-Pole

MOVE trolling motors use a brushless motor that turns at lower rpm than other motors, reducing power use and increasing range. Add a lifetime warranty to the aircraft-quality titanium shaft and its ability to bounce back from impact, functioning properly if it does happen to bend and the motor is likely to give any angler a full day of fishing under the roughest circumstances.

Further, JL Marine always keeps a live tech on hand to troubleshoot problems and immediately ship out replacement parts–something no other motor brand we know of can boast.

Suitable for fresh or saltwater use, MOVE controls include the RealFeel foot pedal with a low-latency wireless haptic ­motor that provides the sensation of cable steering and the ability to put the foot pedal anywhere you like. There are also wireless foot buttons available to activate the Anchor mode and Active Vector Heading. 

For these advancements to owner and angler ownership and use, we award the JL Marine Move Trolling Motor a Marine Power Innovation Award.

The post MPI Awards 2023 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Mercury Racing 500R

The latest and greatest offering from Mercury Racing is a supercharged behemoth. This 4.6-liter V-8 delivers serious torque, acceleration and speed for the large and sporty center consoles and outboard powered day and performance boats that need that extra oomph. Catch up on our review here.

Where: Bahia Mar Lavender Zone Slip 1012, Broward County Convention Center

Mercury V10 Verados

The V10 Verados in 350 and 400 hp offer excellent power options combined with
Mercury’s DTS digital steering to provide a smooth and seamless experience with major horsepower in single or multiple engine applications. See our review here.

Where: Bahia Mar Lavender Zone Booth 1012, Broward County Convention Center

Honda BF350

After a few years of maxing out with its 250 hp engine, the four-stroke pioneer has just come out with its largest engine to date, the all new BF350. Our full review is coming out in our January 2024 issue, but as one of the first to test it, we know the Honda 350 features a newly developed 5-liter-displacement block with a fully balanced, 60-degree offset crankshaft, built using the same alloy and strength specifications as the engine in the Acura NSX high-performance supercar, according to Honda. This eliminates the need for counter balancing the crankshaft and seamlessly integrates with the 60-degree V-8 powerhead design to minimize engine vibration and noise. Available in silver or white paint schemes, the Honda delivers its 350 prop-shaft horsepower using 86-octane gasoline (versus premium unleaded octane) at 5,500 rpm.

Where: Bahia Mar Engine Tent, Booth 1223

Suzuki DF200

Suzuki will have its full array of outboards on display, up to its DF350, but take a look at the DF200. Also note Suzuki’s industry leading Clean Ocean Initiative to help keep our waters clean and safe for boating.

Where: Bahia Mar Engine Tent Booth 1220, Convention Center Booth 2054

Volvo Penta Diesel-Electric Hybrid System

Volvo Penta is leading the way with its sterndrive, forward drive and pod technologies, and has also proven to be at the cutting edge of converting to electric power, as noted in its diesel-hybrid collaboration with Beneteau.

Check out everything Volvo Penta has to offer at the show.

Where: Bahia Mar Engine Tent Booth 1203

COX CXO300

COX continues to make diesel power a viable option in the outboard market, especially with its CXO300.

It’s definitely an option for outboard-powered yacht tenders where the owner wants to use the same fuel as the mothership.

Where: Bahia Mar Engine Tent, Booth 1211

Yamaha XTO 450

Yamaha boosted the power output of its V8 XTO 425 up to 450 hp, expanding its presence on ever-larger boats requiring multiple outboards as its power source. One of the benefits of the 450 is that the Yamaha XTO Offshore 450 boasts more charging power, featuring a three-phase, simultaneous charging system that produces up to 96 net amps per engine in neutral. This enables it to provide more power for high-demand devices, such as gyrostabilizers, air conditioning and sound systems. The charging system is so powerful that it can even eliminate the need for an onboard generator, according to Yamaha. See our full review here.

Where: Bahia Mar Engine Tent, booth 1207, Broward County Convention Center

The post Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2023: Must-See Engines appeared first on Boating Mag.

Krossholmen, Sweden, June 5, 2023

Electric marine propulsion is not the future of recreational boating.

However, electrification aboard boats can provide a more sustainable boating experience, and also a boating experience that’s different, and enhanced, in a couple of ways, compared to the current status quo of combustion-only power. I saw proof of this while running a Groupe Beneteau Jeanneau NC 37 powered by Volvo Penta’s diesel hybrid electric system last week.

There’s little downside to combining the best aspects of electric motors and combustion engines, though cost is probably one factor. We’ll leave that aside for the moment, since I could not pry a dollar amount from either Volvo nor Beneteau. Both promised pricing soon.

It’s also relevant to state that neither Groupe Beneteau–the world’s largest boatbuilder, by the way-or Volvo Penta, maintains that electric or hybrid propulsion will suit every, “use case,“ which is corporate-speak for individual boaters. The basic mission is to create easier, more intuitive, more pleasant and accessible boat operation and ownership while simultaneously taking environmental and sustainability wins where feasible.

Finally, this system is not just about drives, and batteries and motors and engines and their physical installation aboard a boat. The ways in which the system integrates with a variety of control, navigation and monitoring technologies is also important (Perhaps even more important). As are several implications that can change some of the ways some of us go boating. The whole is larger than the sum of its parts.

How do I know all this?

For one thing, I was at boot Dusseldorf in January of this year, when this partnership was announced publicly.

Then, last week I joined a handful of marine journalists from around the world at the Volvo Penta Test Center, located in Krossholmen, Sweden (Itself part of the Gothenburg Archipelago—a bucket list boating destination). The invitation came from both Volvo Penta and Groupe Beneteau in order to see, run and experience a new diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system aboard a Groupe Beneteau Jeanneau NC 37. I spent hours at the helm, inspected the physical installation, and all the while had the engineering and tech staffs at my side, not to mention Volvo Penta President, Johan Inden, and Groupe Beneteau’s Design Vice-President of Power and Motoryacht Development, Erik Stromberg.

Plug-in Parallel Hybrid Diesel-Electric

The system installed in the NC 37 is a plug-in parallel hybrid system. There is a 60kW electric motor installed on each engine’s output shaft, between engine and drive. This adds nine-or 10-inches in length, compared to a standard sterndrive installation. The motor couples to the shaft on demand, hydraulically, and rotates, providing propulsion.

This motor runs off of—and can charge—a 67kW Li-On NMC battery bank that was divided into two places aboard the NC 37: beneath a hatch in the salon sole and, belowdecks, behind some furniture. Bright, orange-sheathed cabling houses the high voltage conductors. There is a separate 24-volt conventional battery bank for engine starting and marine electronics.

With the system as installed, the 15,000 lb. NC 37, can make 10 knots at WOT on electric (not for long, though) and offers three hours of running at 5 knots. The monitoring software displays easy to read data for things like battery state of charge-and the all-important range-on the Volvo Penta Glass Helm MFD. This is live data, so the captain knows at a glance how much time and distance she can run on electric.

The boat is quieter when running on electric. With the diesels, at 5 knots, I recorded 82 decibels (db-A). On electric, at 5 knots, I recorded 72 db-A.

Since sound levels are logarithmic, a 10-db-A difference is effectively a doubling of the perceived sound.

In practical terms, it’s much easier to carry on quiet conversation and just plain more pleasant to be in a quieter environment. This might payoff for boaters who regularly transit no-wake zones, who troll for fish or who simply enjoy slow cruising of an evening with family or friends.

Another positive about running on electric for slow speeds is that there is no fume smell. Anyone who has idled their boat knows that, more often than not, going slow means bringing aboard smelly, and possibly harmful, engine exhaust fumes. (See our article about the Station Wagon Effect). Going slow with electric, you experience no fumes to make your crew seasick. And, no risk of CO poisoning.

NC 37 Hybrid Driveline Data

Electric Boost

The, “electric boost,” mode Volvo Penta engineered into this system wowed me.

When activated, the electric motors turn while the diesels are operating. This gets the boat on plane demonstrably faster than without the electric boost. Our independently-captured numbers showed that the NC 37 reached 30-mph in 17.8 seconds with electric boost compared to 26.7 seconds without it.

Putting the stopwatch aside, I could really feel the difference, not just as a function of time, but as a matter of responsiveness. Achieving plane quicker is a great thing. But, commanding acceleration proves helpful transiting an inlet, running in following seas and other scenarios. Plus, it’s fun!

A thought-provoking implication of electric boost was put forth by Volvo Penta’s Inden.

“With such great acceleration, and given the fact that many boaters hardly ever run at wide-open throttle, might some boaters choose lower-powered combustion engines for their hybrid system after they experience electric boost?“

Doing so, would, of course, lower the carbon footprint further, because smaller engines burn less fuel. Note that Inden stated this as a possibility only; a what-if scenario.

Still, proposing the sale of smaller, less powerful engines is not what I typically expect from a top marine engine executive.

Charging

Charging the 67-kW battery bank is handled several ways. There is a 20kW charger built-in and that boat owners will plug into when shore power is available. The connection will be a standard automotive EV connector. Adaptors that make these work with shore power cables can be readily purchased.

The Li-On battery bank can also be charged underway. The electric motors become alternators when charge mode is engaged. With this charging method, the batteries can be taken to 80-percent state of charge (SOC).

An interesting feature is the ability to charge while at anchor. In this mode, the engines rev to 1,500 rpm, turning the electric motors as chargers, and delivering 60kW in about an hour! That’s fast!

The battery bank can be taken to 100 SOC using this method. This capability provides self-sufficient confidence to the captain. Of course, you will have to be considerate of those sharing your anchorage before running your engines at 1,500 for an hour. And, the risk of CO poisoning would exist during the process—though diesel engines are much safer than gasoline engines in this regard. Still, take the same precautions you would were a genset in use.

Learn More: Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet Fatal Fumes

Generator Replacement

Speaking of generators, the battery pack for a hybrid system such as the one being described here, can replace a generator for some boater’s usage. Doing so means no noise for your crew to endure and no noise to bother neighbor boaters. Also, boats without generators present less of a CO poisoning risk. If the battery pack is charged from shore power, there will be reduced pollution in the aquatic environment.

To find out if the battery pack will substitute for a genset for your use, you need to do two things: estimate the amp-hours ( Ah) required to use the appliances you’d run during a typical overnight or weekend.

Second, convert the kilowatt-hours (kWh) of the battery pack to Ah. To do so, first divide the kWh by volts. Then, multiply by 1000. Doing so for a 120-volt system, and using the 67kW battery bank aboard the NC 37 hybrid demo boat as an example, gives us 550 Ah. Let’s make 80-percent of that available, so we don’t draw the battery down completely and we have 445 Ah available.

Typical Appliances and the Amps Required to Run Them for One Hour on 120V AC

This means the Volvo Penta battery pack as installed in aboard the hybrid electric Groupe Beneteau Jeanneau NC 37 would allow running the suite of equipment listed for 13 hours. On the one hand, losses due to resistance, comprressor surge startups, and other realities will reduce that running time to some extent. On the other hand, it’s not likely that we’d need to run all those appliances constantly. Either way, a quiet, exhaust-free overnight or weekend can be experienced.

Electric DPS

The hybrid electric system integrates with DPS—Volvo Penta Dynamic Positioning System. DPS uses GPS and joystick maneuverability to provide the ability to keep the boat in one place at the touch of a button. This is usefuf while waiting on a drawbridge or lock, while queued up at the fuel dock and even in some fishing applications. Engage DPS and the drives turn independently, while the engines shift and accelerate independently, and the boat stays more or less in place using GPS to fix the location. It’s a station-keeping system and it works just fine.

But, I discovered that I prefer using DPS on electric rather than combustion. For one thing, the instant torque provided by electric motors means the system responds even quicker than it does with a combustion engine input. The boat seemed to stay in a tighter position and with the system making fewer corrections.

Secondly, DPS on electric it is much quieter than with combustion input. This is great for crew aboard the boat, but the benefit extends beyond that. Coming into, or leaving, a marina or anchorage late at night or early in the morning can be done with less chance of disturbing fellow boaters. While visiting pristine areas, quieter maneuvering is less likely to disturb wildlife or marine life and helps preserve the tranquility.

The Future of Boating

It’s admirable that companies such as Groupe Beneteau and Volvo Penta have taken a forward-looking approach to product development. With respect to the environment, Groupe Beneteau’s Erik Stromberg, noted his company’s commitment to sustainability, stating: ”It’s not just something we have to do. We want to do it.”

Stromberg cited Groupe Beneteau’s use of bio-sourced resin and recyclable materials in boatbuilding, a recycling plant in France to deal with boats at end-of-life, and seeking new propulsion solutions, like the Volvo Penta hybrid electric system, as all part of that commitment to, “expand accessibility through the creation of solutions in harmony with nature.”

Volvo Penta’s Johan Inden also spoke passionately with regard to accessibility and sustainability. His stated company’s commitment to lessen the impact on the environment while providing increased accessibility to boating and more convenient boating. (Volvo Penta uses the term, ”Easy Boating.”). He noted Volvo Penta’s extensive testing of this hybrid system in the extreme-yet sensitive- environment at Svalbard, at the Arctic Circle. He detailed all that has been required to bring this to the recreational boat buyer.

Notably, Volvo Penta just released a new version of its IPS propulsion system that comes standard with two engines per drive. While suited for large yachts, Volvo Penta iw laying the ground work for more universally useful drive systems capable of operating off of multiple inputs. He cited petroleum, electric and hydrogen as just some possible examples. That capability allows the boat owner/operator to select the input that best suits a given situation.

And to expand upon the concept of accessibility, it means to make boating more available to more people. Quiet, joystick-operated marine propulsion, with touchscreen monitoring and integrated turning, trimming, course- , speed-, and position-keeping, all gives new boaters a leg up on the learning curve to operating a boat. For those of us with “old school” experience, these systems provide a layer of redundancy and increased convenience.

Hit a boat show, or make an appointment with either Beneteau or Volvo Penta, to see this hybrid electric system for yourself.

The post Volvo Penta and Groupe Beneteau Partner on Plug-in Hybrid Propulsion appeared first on Boating Mag.

Join editor-in-chief, Kevin Falvey as he gets the scope on all of the latest innovations from Volvo Penta at the 2023 Miami International Boat Show. We start with the Twin Volvo Penta Forward Drives and the versatility this now provides boaters. Stick around to find out about the other innovations.

About Volvo Penta
The origins of Volvo Penta can be traced back as far as 1868, when the foundry and mechanical workshop Sköfde Gjuteri & Mekaniska Verkstad was founded. The company manufactured cast-iron goods and hardware such as boilers, pots and pans, ploughs and threshing machines. A somewhat humble beginning for a company that has become a world leader in diesel engines for marine and industrial use. A company renowned throughout the world for innovations such as Volvo Penta IPS propulsion and the Aquamatic.

Learn more at volvopenta.com.

The post Boating Spotlight: Volvo Penta appeared first on Boating Mag.

Mercury Racing

The company known for building the fastest gasoline outboards on the planet will have plenty of power on display, including the flagship 450R. Sea trials will be available through reservation via its boat-building partners.

Location: Convention Center, Herald Plaza

mercuryracing.com

Yamaha

Everyone into outboards will want to check out the new 450 XTO, the latest generation in Yamaha’s V8 Offshore series, designed to power the giant center consoles that have become so popular. The new version not only upgrades horsepower, it also increases charging power to meet the electrical demands of today’s high-tech boats.

Location: Convention Center booth MB 2200, Herald Plaza, booth ST132, Yamaha Dock, Venetian Marina

yamahaoutboards.com

Oxe Marine

Oxe will be unveiling its latest diesel outboard, which it says will be a game-changer in the compression engine market.

Location: Convention Center booth MB209

oxemarine.com

Indmar

Indmar Marine Engines, which builds high-end gasoline inboards, is announcing a partnership with Roush Performance and Pavati Boats. The new Pavati will be powered by an Indmar 6.2L Raptor.

Location: Convention Center Booth MB2090

indmar.com

Suzuki

Suzuki will have their full array of outboards on display, including the flagship DF350, which has contra-rotating props to offer precise handling around the docks and in tight spaces.

Location: Convention Center booth MB1914, Herald Plaza booth HP319

suzukimarine.com

Volvo Penta

Volvo with have plenty to look at both at the booth and in the water, including its award-winning Assisted Docking Technology. Also see what’s going on with their innovations in sterndrive, diesel and electric power.

Location: Convention Center booth MB2414, Miami Yachting Center, Herald Plaza HP4A

volvopenta.com

Yanmar

The venerated diesel engine builder is announcing its first foray into electric at the Miami Boat Show. Though targeted at sail boats, the new E-Sail drive concept is worth checking out as it shows the future direction of marine propulsion.

Location: Convention Center Booth MB1514

yanmar.com

Mercury Marine

Check out the full range of Mercury power, from the Avator 7.5e electric outboard to the Mercury 600 Verado that features an independently-moving lower unit.

Location: Convention Center Booth MB 1700, Herald Plaza MercDU2, Venetian Marina

mercurymarine.com

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