[Putershark]

Originally Posted by djdecuollo

I have an 07 Triumph 215 and I want to take her offshore some but I have no idea what the fuel range will allow. Anyone take their boat offshore and how far out would you say is a safe bet with fuel to spare.

All and any help/input would be greatly appreciated!

Like an Aircraft, I would not think of in terms of range in miles, as much as in how many "hours" (time) the engine will run at any given RPM speed before running out of fuel...

Most of your modern outboard engines though will return their best range (if the right prop is installed) right around the 3500 to 4500 RPM mark. Much faster, and you are burning fuel at a much higher rate for not much gain in either ground speed or in distance gained. I like the 1/3 rule of thumb myself, but if in calm water and if you are not in a rush and willing to run a good cruise speed in and out, you can more than likely add another 30 plus miles to that range...

Fuel flow meters though are great for such work for you can watch how even slight changes in trim can effect your GPH (time in the tank) burn rate. Then compare it to your GPS too see if you will have enough fuel (burn time) to make to your spot and back. This for backing down even a 50 to 100 RPM at certain speeds, can drop fuel burn by gallons per hour pending how fast you are running of course and with the cost of such gauges going down http://www.boatersworld.com/product/319393112.htm
having one installed will pay for gauge at 3 plus dollars a gallon of fuel soon enough