On Sat, 25 Nov 2006 20:12:54 -0600, Cal Vanize
wrote:

Other than some of the obvious ones ("spare" engine reliability, single
operating engine economy), what are some of the reasons to get a single
engine trawler ( 43 feet) over a twin and vice versa?

It depends on your priorities.

Single engine trawlers offer the best fuel economy, less maintenance,
better prop protection and more space in the engine room.

Twin engines offer better ultimate reliability in terms of being able
to get home after an engine failure, and better maneuverability in
close quarters without the expense and maintenance of thrusters.

It is interesting to observe that Nordhavns, arguably the best long
range trawlers in current new production, are generally single main
engine with a small "get home" engine off to the side with seperate
shaft and folding prop.

For what its worth, I opted for twin engines because I like the
redundancy and maneuverability. The redundancy aspect has already
made itself useful on each of my last two boats. With engine failure
it's not a matter of "if" it will happen, but when and where it will
happen.