Fill the fuel tank or NOT

[phishead]

Gas prices aside, for a moment.
after 3 years of rescheduling we’re making the long run to Desolation Sound in BC this summer. I expect we’ll run 500+ miles over the 2 weeks and wondering if it makes sense to fill up my tanks on the way out or refuel along the way. I’ve always been a fuel economy geek, to my wife’s dismay, and try to run at my best burn rates (1mpg)with about a half tank or less. I’m worried about fuel economy carry the extra weight for an extended trip.

twin 250s Marlin

what’s your approach and best practice?

FWIW, fuel up here is over $6 and Canada is closer to $10/gallon

 

[Father's Day]

Gas prices aside, for a moment.
after 3 years of rescheduling we’re making the long run to Desolation Sound in BC this summer. I expect we’ll run 500+ miles over the 2 weeks and wondering if it makes sense to fill up my tanks on the way out or refuel along the way. I’ve always been a fuel economy geek, to my wife’s dismay, and try to run at my best burn rates (1mpg)with about a half tank or less. I’m worried about fuel economy carry the extra weight for an extended trip.

twin 250s Marlin

what’s your approach and best practice?

FWIW, fuel up here is over $6 and Canada is closer to $10/gallon

Shit happens fill up every time you stop, be safe and have fun

 

[seasick]

I would think that the distance between possible gas docks and the probability that they will have gas or be open is more important than a few tenths of my MPG rate.
One thing you don't want to do is have to worry that you have enough gas to get to point A and also backup destination B.
If you have two tanks which you should, use the AUX as your emergency gas

 

[Fishtales]

I always fill both tanks when refueling. I run ine with f the aux and one off the main. Fuel mileage isn’t a concern in my book. If you are boating with mileage as a prime factor - sell the boat and drive a Prius.
You may not have access to fuel, as others say - stuff happens on the water, fuel docks go down, fuel supply can be interrupted. Don’t chisel in this area. Keep it full use Yamaha additive and late in season stabilizer.

 

[PointedRose]

1/3 out 1/3 back 1/3 reserve. Don’t overthink it.

 

[Halfhitch]

I agree with seasick and Fishtales. That trip is all about enjoyment, not fuel numbers bragging rights. Operate to make it the most enjoyable for everyone. No matter how efficient you are with your rpm and trim, the tide run in those waters is going to have a huge impact on those mpg numbers. Much more than your finesse at the controls. Lotsa fuel feels good. Take an extra anchor.

That trip is one I always dreamed of when I lived in Washington and never got to do it. I don't know what your time schedule or interests are, but I still remember thinking I had to check out Bute inlet. Just be aware that if you make this trip and we don't get lots of pictures, we are gonna hunt you down.

Hopefully Trapper will chime in to this thread, he will have some personal experience to offer about travels, fueling and enjoying in that area.

 

[SkunkBoat]

Fill them up.

Run on the rear tank first. switch over with about 25 gal left. Run on the front tank. Gas up again before you are down to 25 in that one.
I don't like running motors on separate tanks.

If you have 4 stroke 250s and you only average 1 mpg you should slow down or figure out why you don't get 1.5.

 

[family affair]

I don't know if the 300 is like the 270, but if it is, the boat rides better and is more stable with a full tank. On a long trip the improved ride in chop would be worth it.
Be sure to take extra fuel filters and the tools to change them out. Since you don't fill your tanks often there is a slight chance you will dislodge some crud and clog a filter. Ask me how I know!

 

[trapper]

Phishead, As a frequent visiter to Desolation Sound and north up to Telegraph Cove and beyond, I would suggest top it up where you can as the further you get away from the larger towns the more fuel is going to cost. You have probably already done this, but before heading out with your trip plan, find out where all the fuel docks are, there are not a lot! Will help with the enjoyment (and it is all of that) knowing that all the beautiful bays and Islands will all be accessible to you without a worry of running short. This is not an area to be an "economy geek" just enjoy!!!