Reduce Fuel Costs on a Whitsundays Bareboat Charter
Want to reduce fuel costs on your Whitsundays bareboat charter? The good news is it’s easy. Whether you choose a sailing catamaran or a power catamaran, a few simple habits can make a big difference to the fuel you use and what you pay at the end of your holiday.
Our number one tip: slow down and enjoy the views. This is the Whitsundays, not a racecourse!
How Fuel Works on Your Charter
It works a lot like a rental car. Your boat starts your charter with full fuel tanks. When you return to Coral Sea Marina, our team tops the tanks up again, and you pay for the fuel you’ve used.
That includes fuel for both your catamaran and your dinghy.
Why Speed Matters More Than You Think
Engine speed is one of the biggest factors in how much fuel you use. Many guests assume that pushing the engines a little harder will get them there much faster. In reality, a small increase in speed burns a lot more fuel for very little time saved.
Based on our fleet fuel-use comparisons, over a 7-night charter, cruising at 9 to 9.5 knots instead of 8 knots can add approximately:
- 90 extra litres per engine on a sailing catamaran
- 190 extra litres per engine on a power catamaran
These figures assume no wind, with both boats motoring for the same amount of time.
A Real Whitsundays Example: Nara Inlet to Whitehaven Beach
Let’s look at a typical trip. Nara Inlet to Whitehaven Beach is about 15 nautical miles.
| Cruising speed | Time for 15 nautical miles |
|---|---|
| 9 knots | About 1 hour 40 minutes |
| 8 knots | About 1 hour 53 minutes |
That’s a difference of about 12 minutes. Is it worth burning a lot more fuel to get there 12 minutes sooner? We don’t think so, especially when you could be enjoying the scenery on the way.
More Ways to Reduce Fuel Costs
- Follow your briefing. Our Operations Team will show you the most efficient way to run your engines before you leave Coral Sea Marina.
- Use the sails. On a sailing catamaran, let the wind do the work when conditions suit.
- Work with the tides. Tidal streams in the Whitsundays can be strong, especially in the passages. Travelling with the tide saves fuel and time.
- Plan your route. Group nearby anchorages together and avoid backtracking across the islands.
- Stay a little longer. Spending two nights in a favourite anchorage means less time motoring and more time relaxing.
- Go easy in the dinghy. Dinghy fuel counts too, so cruise gently between the boat and the beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay for fuel at the end of my charter?
Yes. Your boat starts with full tanks. At the end of your charter, our team tops them up and you pay for the fuel you’ve used.
Do we need to refuel during our charter?
No, unless you’re on an extended charter of 15 nights or more. Refuelling is only done by our staff at Coral Sea Marina.
Does the dinghy use fuel too?
Yes. Your fuel costs include both your catamaran and your dinghy.
Will going faster save much time?
Usually not as much as people expect. On a 15 nautical mile trip, cruising at 9 knots instead of 8 knots saves only about 12 minutes, while using a lot more fuel.
Do sailing catamarans use less fuel than power catamarans?
Generally, yes. Sailing catamarans use less fuel when motoring, and you can use the sails when the wind suits. Actual fuel use depends on the conditions, your itinerary and how the boat is run.
What’s the best way to reduce fuel costs on a charter?
Cruise at a sensible speed of around 8 knots, follow the advice from your pre-departure briefing, and plan your route to avoid unnecessary motoring.
Will your team explain fuel-efficient cruising before we leave?
Yes. Our Operations Team will show you how to run your boat efficiently and confidently before you leave Coral Sea Marina.
Ready to Plan Your Holiday?
Let our friendly, helpful, knowledgeable Reservations Team help you find the perfect boat for your holiday.