I have a Mako 252 with twin Optimax outboards on it. I have found myself foolishly wandering around new boat showrooms lately 
and I came across a 24 foot Albemarle center console with a sigle diesel and jackshaft configuration. It is a very well made boat, and I was intrigued with the diesel, so I engaged the salesman.
He explained to me that the boat was good for a 30nMPH cruise at 8GPH. At first, I was impressed, but then I realized that my twin Optimax's only burn about 10GPH, combined, at that speed. This gives the diesel a little edge, but given that I have the dependability of twins (and at least an additional 10nMPH on top speed), it seemd like 2GPH is a pretty good trade off.
So here's my question: What do you think of the reliabiity of a single jackshaft diesel versus twin outboards for offshore applications? Could/should one feel as comfortable running to the Bahamas in the single diesel versus the twin outboards?
Thanks,
Paul
and I came across a 24 foot Albemarle center console with a sigle diesel and jackshaft configuration. It is a very well made boat, and I was intrigued with the diesel, so I engaged the salesman.He explained to me that the boat was good for a 30nMPH cruise at 8GPH. At first, I was impressed, but then I realized that my twin Optimax's only burn about 10GPH, combined, at that speed. This gives the diesel a little edge, but given that I have the dependability of twins (and at least an additional 10nMPH on top speed), it seemd like 2GPH is a pretty good trade off.
So here's my question: What do you think of the reliabiity of a single jackshaft diesel versus twin outboards for offshore applications? Could/should one feel as comfortable running to the Bahamas in the single diesel versus the twin outboards?
Thanks,
Paul