Jet Boat of the Future!
Three years in the planning and 2 years of phasing in new jet pumps and high tech diesel engines, Tag-A-Long has the most advanced technology in our “Big Boat” jet boat. This is a 33’ all aluminum vessel with twin engines and jet propulsion pumps. We use this boat for daily scenic tours on the Colorado River from Moab to Canyonlands National Park and to return canoe parties from the confluence of the Green and Colorado River to Moab as they finish their self guided trips.
Reducing noise, emissions, and fuel consumption has been a dedicated goal of Tag-A-Long, and first indications are that the design and engineering is paying off.
The new diesel engines have cut the fuel consumption by 40%. An inventive special exhaust and muffler system has reduced engine noise so guides and guests can talk in a normal voice with the engines operating. We have far exceeded the new emission standards for diesels engines with an advanced fuel injection system. Thus far, there is no diesel exhaust order or vapor coming from the exhaust system. All of these features were important in the design of the upgrade.
This technology doesn’t come cheap, but with fuel efficiency, the investment cost should be recouped. Over the past two years, we have invested $95,000. 00 to make this the most environmental friendly vessel doing this type of work on the river.
We hope our guests will enjoy their trip more as we travel over the water, stopping to talk about the geology, ancient cultural sites and history on this section of the Colorado River. “It is nice to lead in our tour quality and to reflect the values as best as possible of the wilderness nature of Canyonlands National Park”, related Bob Jones, President of Tag-A-Long Expeditions. “With additional fine tuning of boat trim, understanding the most efficient operating speed and final adjustments to the boat, we have taken a giant step in our jet boat operation.”