Motoring

Motoring is propelling a vessel using its engine rather than, or in addition to, sail power. For sailors, it often means starting the engine in light airs, adverse wind, confined waters, or when maintaining a schedule. For power boaters, it describes normal underway operation under engine power.

Motoring affects passage time, fuel range, comfort, and safety. Skippers must account for Fuel Consumption, maintain a reliable Heading, and adjust speed for Sea State, traffic, visibility, and tidal flow. It is especially important when entering harbours, crossing bars, avoiding lee shores, or keeping steerage in calm conditions.

PredictWind forecasts, routing tools, and tidal data help decide when motoring is necessary and how to minimise engine hours. Power boaters can use Power Routing and Departure Planning to compare routes, expected conditions, and efficient speeds before committing fuel and time.