Charter Fuel Cost Calculator

As a rule of thumb, gas engines burn about 1 gallon per 10 HP per hour at cruising speed (75% throttle). Diesel engines are more efficient at about 1 gallon per 18 HP per hour. A twin 250HP gas setup at cruise burns roughly 37 gallons per hour. Trolling and idle time use much less, about 15% of cruising consumption.

Most charter captains include fuel in the trip price because it simplifies the customer experience. The alternative is charging a base rate plus fuel at cost, but this creates uncertainty for the customer. If fuel prices swing wildly, consider a fuel surcharge that adjusts monthly rather than changing your base price.

Review fuel costs quarterly and adjust trip prices accordingly. A common approach is to set your base price assuming average fuel costs, then add a fuel surcharge when prices spike above a threshold. For example: 'Trips include fuel at $4.00/gallon. A $25 surcharge applies when marina fuel exceeds $5.00/gallon.'