Irwin 25 Engine and Mainsail - oh, and hull speed

[jimgo]

Hi! Someone has offered me a mid-70's Irwin 25 that looks to be in decent shape, except that she needs an engine and a new mainsail. Most of the boats I've been looking at have had 6-8 HP engines, but they are MUCH lighter weight than the Irwin. Would a 9.9 HP be appropraite, or would a 15 be better? I understand that too much HP is overkill, since the engine, at least theoretically, can't push the boat past it's hull speed. However, my thought was that a stronger engine might help overcome some of the tidal currents I'd find in the bays and inlets in NJ (current plan is to keep her near Avalon, Stone Harbor, Sea Isle, and Ocean City).

I've found inconsistent specifications for the main - does anyone have the 25 and can you give me measurements from your sail?

Also, does anyone know the hull speed of the boat? I'm trying to figure out how long it will take me to move the boat from the current location to my "desired marina" (assuming I can find a good place that's a reasonable rate and can handle at least a 3' draft).

Thanks in advance!

- Jim

[DRFerron]

Welcome to Sailnet, Jim.

Your theoretical hull speed is 6.7 knots based on the calculation found here:

Hull Speed

[jimgo]

Thanks for the quick reply, Donna!!!