Propeller for Oceanis 381

[Caribana]

Any recommendations for prop size for our 381? The engine is a Yanmar 3GM30F 27hp.
Thanks!

 

[Philip_Oceanis 361]

Ask Beneteau & Yanmar

On my Beneteau Oceanis 361 (Volvo Penta 29hp) I have the factory fitted 2-blade fixed 16X11 propeller. Alternatively a 3-blade fixed 16X10 was installed again from the French factory. I can say that both propeller are very good for the boat (a friend has the same boat but with the 3-blade).
Of course that means nothing for the 381. What I would like to say is ask Beneteau for the size (and exact propeller) of the original fitted unit. I believe they have done their homework quite well. In addition you can ask Yanmar about the recommended propeller and then compare the two.
Then you can ask any propeller manufacturer as most of them have some programs to calculate recomended propellers.

 

[Caribana]

Re: Ask Beneteau & Yanmar

Thanks very much. On the beneteau parts website it says a 15 x 10. I don't know if that's what is currently on the boat as I can't see any markings...

 

[JohnShannon]

If you are looking for a new prop, I would suggest a feathering prop. How do you get about right now, oars?

My boat (old first 375) has a Kiwi prop and seems to sail better than prior prop which was a two bladed fixed.

 

[Caribana]

Haha...yes, its quite a workout with the oars! No, we do have a prop, I just don't know what size is, as it doesn't seem to be marked. Its a 15 inch diameter, but not sure about the pitch. We just don't seem to have much power, and have trouble manoeuvering. We suspect we need more pitch than we have.