Is 3.0 L power enough?

[praaa]

I want to get a newer boat and would like to go to an inboard. I can find quite a few mid 2000's with 3.0 L engines in it but not sure if it is enough power after talking with a few people. Most say if you want to pull 2 (one person) tubes and have 4-6 kids/adults in the boat you need to go to a 4.3 L engine as you won't have the power. I don't know anyone who has a 3.0 so wondering other peoples thoughts, experiences.

[Alex]

I would agree with the people you chatted with because you maybe working the engine to its limits.

[Howard Sterndrive]

What I tell people wanting to do any watersports:
up to 16.5 feet = 3.0 fine
up to 18.5 feet = 4.3 fine
19 to 20- 4.3 MPI or V8
over 20 = V8
over 23 feet = big block V8


I have repowered two 4 cylinder bots to V6's - The 3.0 is a great engine, but a lot of entry level boats have it stressed to its limits.
The slightest hiccup of imperfect fuel, a wee ding on a prop blade, or green growth on the hull and you can feel the lack of power.
In a bigger boat, that 3.0 is screaming away over 4000 rpm a lot of the time....just gives me an uneasy feeling.

[praaa]

Thanks to all who responded. I have purchased a 06 Bayliner with 4.3 MPI. Excellent boat so far.

[Jetlag]

I have purchased a 06 Bayliner with 4.3 MPI. Excellent boat so far.

Lets see your new boat and tubing pictures.

[Blazeweedmon]

Why would you even want a boat when a plain is faster?! Pleese stop beleiving in old fashion

[Howard Sterndrive]

the rain in spain is faster than your plain, jane