I just bought yesterday a Hydra 16 Catamaran to perform my experiments.
I would like to convert it to solar powered vessel for family flat water cruising.
My experiment will be to establish what will be maximum speed when powered by:
a) electric outboard motor 1,152 Watts 86 Lbs 24 V - that I purchased already
b) Suzuki outboard 4 stroke 6 HP -planing to buy one this week
I assume that catamaran will be carrying two people weight - 150 kg, and all rigging removed (mast) just hulls.
I am not sure if I still need rudders or could just use motor to steer the boat.
I wonder is somebody want to guess or know already what max speed will be achievable in a) and b).
I should know all results in week or two.
Next question if catamaran hulls powered by 6HP motor will be faster and more efficient then small dingy ( some may say that small boats could get planning with as small motor as 3 HP ?? )