The engine of a boat is arguably the most important part of the vessel, without it a boat is nothing not much more than a floating raft. For this reason it can be useful to understand the various different engines used to power boats, and how each effect the movement of the craft.

Outboard Engines

Outboard engines are attached to the stern of the boat. They are often manually operated and used to steer as well as power the forward momentum of the vessel. Engines fitted on the stern of the boat can also be moved up and down to avoid hitting the bottom of shallow areas.

Inboard Engines

These are mounted within the hull of the boat. The motor and drive assembly are mounted inside the hull of the boat, while both the propeller and the propeller shaft are located outside. This makes the entire mechanism much more compact, with less need to worry about shallow waters.

Sterndrive Engines

Sterndrive engines are also mounted within the hull of the boat. The difference with these engines however is the fact the propeller and drive assembly are mounted on the transom, at the stern of the boat.