When it comes to pleasure craft, there are several types of propulsion systems, each offering unique features and advantages. This fact sheet provides an overview of common propulsion types.
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PWC (Personal watercraft)
A small, motorized watercraft (under 4 meters long) that moves using a water-jet system. It’s designed to be ridden while sitting, standing or kneeling on the watercraft - not inside it, like a regular boat.
Outboard
An engine system mounted on the back (transom) of a boat. It includes the motor, gearbox, and propeller all in one unit. You can lift it out of the water for storage or maintenance, or adjust its angle for a smoother ride or shallow water. To steer a boat with this type of motor, you turn the whole engine to change the direction of the thrust.
Inboard
An engine inside a boat's hull. It connects to a propeller using a shaft, and uses a rudder for steering. This set-up is common in larger boats and or sport boats because it helps balance weight and keeps the deck space open. It’s often called “direct-drive” or “v-drive”.
Inboard/Outboard (I/O)
A combination system where the engine is inside the boat, but the drive (which moves the boat) is outside on the back. It combines features of both inboard and outboard systems – like turning the drive to steer and adjusting the angle for better ride control. Often called a “sterndrive”.
Jet drive
Instead of a spinning propeller, this system pushes water out the back of the boat to move it forward. It’s often used in PWCs and some boats because it can operate in shallow water and there’s less risk of hitting objects underwater.
Sail
A sail is a large piece of fabric used to catch the wind to move a boat. Sails come in different shapes, sizes and materials, depending on the type of boat and how it’s used.
Auxiliary sailing
This means a boat has sails and another power source, like an engine. This helps the boat move even when there’s no wind, or when you need more control of the boat.
