How many horses should i strap to a 24' Cape Cat?

[Thunderbird Two]

I've just bought a 24' Cape Cat (originally a crayfisher down in Tas). It's only a hull at the moment, so plenty of work ahead. Am after some advice on what size motors to get. It's a pretty heavy thing, so i was thinking twin 175 or 200's.

Some say go a 2 stroke, as it is more responsive, but others say a 4 stroke will have a better cruising speed. I figure I'll be doing a lot more cruising than accelerating, so I'm thinking the 4 stroke... Anyone disagree?

[mal555]

There is a 2005 model Cape Cat for sale currently at Boat Sales Tasmania with twin 225 4 st. Yammies ($115,000.00), on the web and worth a look, just for ideas.

If you want to know anything about the boats a guy called Steven "Chesty" French (Penguin Composites, Tasmania) built the latest examples, including one for the Hobart based Marine Police.
Originally designed and built by Henry Hobson (Tas.) and have been a commercial favourite of the local ab divers.

[Mister]

300's would have to be the go definately need enough to blow away those other pesky boats!

[mal555]

If you want big horses for not much money, and don't mind secondhand, the 250's and 300's that come off the 15 metre tourist rigid inflatables (lots around Hobart in Tassie for example) after 2 years are worth a thought.
The Hobart based Merc. dealer, Channel Marine in Margate sell off the big Verado's with warranty at a fraction of the new price.
Eastern Shore marine sell the 300 Suzuki's.