Suitability of engine power for small-sized fishing boats at the Palabuhanratu Fishing Port

Abstract

Since fuel is a significant item in fishing operation, its high price becomes a burden for fishers and boat owners so they have to improve the economic efficiency of fishing operation. This study reviews the suitability of the dimensions of fishing boats with the power of the engine to determine a strategy in addressing an issue in fuel consumption. The suitability was assessed by comparing the existing engine power with the theoretical power required by the boats and the amount of fuel carried onboard during their fishing trips with the theoretical amount of fuel needed. The results showed that most small-sized boats at Palabuhanratu had engines with power more than the requirement, except for wooden boats that used 40 PK outboard motor engines. Fishers tend to carry fuel 62.1% more than the theoretical requirement because of the use of larger engines and the needs to bring spare fuel.