When Your Fuel is Almost Empty

Running out of fuel should never be an issue, but sometimes even experienced boaters can forget to “top off”

Here are some things to remember to prevent running out of fuel.

Rule of Thirds: The first rule is calculating the amount of fuel needed to get where you’re going to and getting back again.  Make sure that amount required equals no more than one-third of your tank’s capacity, another third is to get home from your destination and the final third is your reserve.

Rough Water: If the wind and waves build up, you’ll need more fuel to get home. Keep a “weather eye” and don’t take chances. Gauge you fuel by the changes of the weather; don’t take the risk of being caught in the middle somewhere hoping you can make it back.

Trim Up: Boat fuel tanks are installed when the fuel “pickups”on the aft end of the tank. As boats normally run with some “bow rise”, that allows your engine to get fuel longer. Keep the boat “on plane” with the bow up by moving gear and passengers aft. Don’t slow down to idle.

Be prepared. There are no guarantees

Plan B: If, you forgot to fuel up, shame on you: check and see if there is a closer landing nearby. Have a “Plan B” in mind even with enough fuel, Good skippers give themselves options.

Log It:  Boat fuel gauges are not very reliable. There is no reason to trust a gauge or your memory, so keep a fuel log, noting the date, engine hours, and amount of fuel purchased.

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