Pros and cons: Are outboard motors a good option even on large boats?

​Ole Puls votes for outboard motors

​The biggest advantage of outboard motors is actually quite obvious: they really come into their own when manoeuvring. Boats with outboard motors have a significantly tighter turning circle than comparable models with inboard engines. In practice, this often amounts to one or two boat lengths. Outboard motors also score highly when it comes to maintenance: the engine is compactly housed at the stern, everything is easily accessible, and nothing is fitted deep inside the hull. Should any major damage actually occur, the engine can be removed and replaced with relative ease. The argument that they are purely petrol-powered is no longer entirely true either. Manufacturers such as Cox Powertrain and OXE Marine demonstrate that diesel outboard motors with substantial torque have long been a reality, and there are also significant developments in the electric sector. Another advantage is the space saved. On smaller boats in particular, the traditional engine compartment is no longer needed and is converted into storage space. And anyone who still thinks outboard motors are only for small boats should take a look at the Spanish De Antonio D60 or the Axopar 45 throw. Powerful 600 PS V-10 engines are mounted on the transom here.

Ralf Marquard votes against outboard motors

​Although high-performance outboard engines have become an increasingly common sight on large boats in recent years, there are still a number of advantages to inboard engines: having the engine installed inside the boat has a positive effect on weight distribution and, consequently, on the trim. During servicing, there is no risk of tools or removed nuts falling into the water; at most, they might end up in the bilge. The engines are housed safely in engine compartments and are not directly exposed to the elements. The risk of theft is lower for inboard engines than for outboard engines. Boats with inboard engines have a continuous bathing platform on which you can move safely from one side to the other without having to navigate past the outboard motors. Water-ski hooks can be easily fitted to the stern, and there is no need for special towing equipment such as brackets, poles or towers. Anyone looking for fuel-efficient diesel technology on the second-hand market is more likely to find it in boats with inboard engines than in those with outboard engines. Furthermore, inboard engines are suitable for various propulsion systems such as shaft, pod, jet and Z-drive.

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