With Petrol and Diesel prices at an all time high and with no signs of that changing anytime soon, here are a few tips that should help you maximise your fuel budget.

All these things are fairly simple, easy to do and cost effective, but can make a surprising difference to your fuel usage.

Lighten The Load

This is probably the easiest thing to do and with KB Dry Stack's free indoor kit storage, it's also a no cost option. So, clear out those lockers of things that you don't need to be carrying all the time. Obviously keep safety kit aboard, but we see many boats literally laden with unnecessary amounts of kit.

Engine Servicing

A properly serviced and maintained engine will give you the best fuel economy so proper servicing is a must! At KB Dry Stack we service all makes of outboard and inboard diesel and petrol engines. To book a service or engine check call 023 9283 3166 or E-Mail

Check The Prop

A damaged prop will eat up your fuel! So, if you have any small (or large) "dings" in your prop, now is the time to get them sorted. Now is also a good time to consider the performance of your prop. Most engines can run on a number of prop options. Some are made for performance and some can give better fuel economy. At KB dry stack we offer a full prop repair and replacement service and will be happy to advise you to ensure you still have the right prop installed based on your current boating needs.

Trim Your Boat

Most boats have methods of "trimming" the engine and hull. Remember, the less contact the hull has with the water, the less friction is generated and less fuel is used. If your boat is also fitted with trim tabs, these should be used to "balance" the boat to reduce drag. If you would like any advice on the best way to trim your boat contact the office on 023 9283 3166 or E-Mail

Check Availability

It's always advisable to check the availability of fuel within The Solent area. At KB Dry Stack, the nearest fuel pontoon is only 800 metres away. However, during busy periods in the summer, supplies of petrol can temporarily run out and the next nearest supply is either at the top of the harbour (30 minutes each way), in Langstone Harbour, or on the IOW. Here at KB, we are happy to check the local supplies prior to your launch so you know whether it's necessary to bring fuel with you. Don't forget, Petrol prices at marinas are normally much higher than at land based petrol stations, so it may be worth bringing some canned fuel with you!

Keep You Hull Clean

If you are lucky enough to have your boat here at KB Dry Stack, marine growth and other dirt should not be a problem. We pressure wash your hull and outdrives every time we recover your boat. However, if you boat is kept on a wet berth it is important to ensure that the hull is kept as clean as possible. Even boats that have been anti-fouled can still have significant amounts of weed growth in the warmer months of the year. KB Boat Park offer a "lift out - pressure wash - and relaunch" service from as little as £65 inc VAT. For details call 023 9283 3166 or E-Mail

Location, Location, Location

The less time your engine is running, the less fuel you will use. So choosing your Marina or Dry Stack location is Vital. Remember a lengthy journey to get to open water will significantly add to your fuel costs as well as eat up valuable leisure time. Here at KB Dry Stack, we are situated right at the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour - giving almost instant access to The Solent and the Isle Of Wight. For more information about our famous Dry Stack facility, call 023 9283 3166 or E-Mail.