FUEL
One of the first things many people will wonder about or ask - Won't you run out of gas?
This depends on many factors with the first and foremost, conditions. It is not possible to get reasonable mileage fighting rough seas with the winds blowing head on at 15+ mph and running against a 1-3+ foot wind swell (chop). These are typical conditions on your average day in Hawaii with the trade winds are blowing. The trade winds blow out of the ENE, so traveling from Kauai to Oahu, Oahu to Maui, Maui to the Big Island will be against the prevailing wind and swells. I strongly advise that such an crossing not be attempted without quality experience under ones belt and a solid understanding of their PWC's ability and range in these conditions. Otherwise wait for a calm day or a Kona day before doing a west to east crossing.
Other major factors that come into play are:
Type of PWC/motor: Current naturally aspirated 4-stroke motors are very fuel efficient compared with older and forced-induction (supercharger/turbo) models, and can get 100+ miles out of a single tank under ideal conditions.
Type of hull design: Deeper "V" hulls like those on the Yamaha FXHO make for a smoother ride through the chop, but require more fuel to part the waters especially at lower speeds or when carrying gear. Flatter hulls require less fuel, but provide a more bumpy ride which could mean having to go quite a bit slower if there's enough chop, and thus the mileage dropping.
Rider's throttle hand/skill: Somebody that likes to goose the throttle and back off repeatedly will net worse mileage. somebody that can anticipate big bumps well in advance and gradually ease off or on the throttle smoothly as needed will get better mileage.
Nevertheless, it is NOT wise to attempt a crossing in either direction without carrying additional gas. There are three options for carrying additional gas.
1) The most expensive and best option would be to get a custom made gas tank installed as there is typically quite a bit of empty space around, behind and above a PWC gas tank. On the FXHO, I bet I could have a tank made that would expand the carrying capacity from 18.5 to 30-35 gallons. However, this would be very time consuming and cost-prohibitive.
2) Fuel bladders was suggested to me by Tom Stone who has successfully done inter-island traveling by PWC on several occasions and was recently in the news after receiving a
citation for traveling to another island for a PWC meeting (which was then dropped in court). They are flexible, form fitting and helps a PWC retain a lower center of gravity when placed on the PWC floor in front of the gas tank if there is room. Additional bladders can also be carried (and evenly distributed) in a PWC's gunnels. Bladders typically run $150-$200 for a 10-15 gallon unit so they are still pricey. Also they are very difficult to find.
3) Strapping regular jerry cans to the back of a PWC or a rescue sled. This is the most cost-effective solution. Jerry cans typically cost $20. However, being placed on the back can throw off a PWC's trim which will have consequences on handling/gas mileage unless you have a trim control feature on your PWC (like on the FXHO). Also the cans are exposed to sunlight and heat expansion. Opening the vent cap is not a good idea since it will be exposed to sea spray and take in salt water. One solution is to stop, open the vent cap part-way to let expanded air escape once in a while when riding.
General Distances
Oahu's Waianae Ramp (west side) to Kauai Lihiue Ramp (east side): 85 Miles
Oahu's Waianae Ramp (west side) to Kauai Port Allen Ramp (south side)96 Miles
Oahu's Hawaii Kai Ramp (southeast side) to Molokai Kanakakai Harbor 46 Miles
Oahu's Ala Moana Bowl/Ala Wai Ramp (south near "Town") to Molokai Kanakakai Harbor 57 Miles
Oahu's Hawaii Kai Ramp to Maui Lahaina harbor 75 Miles
Kauai Port Allen to Niihau's Northern Island: 35 miles
Kauai Port Allen, around Niihau, back to Kauai Port Allen 100 Miles
Kauai Port Allen to Kaula and back: 129 Miles
Maui Kihei rd + ala Koa st Ramp to BI Kealakehe Ramp 80 Miles
Maui Kihei rd + ala Koa st Ramp to BI Hilo 123 Miles
Mike! Will definitely let you know!
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