Choosing the Right Outboard Motor for Your Quest Marine Q620: A Guide for Reef and Island Adventures

When you own a Quest Marine Q620, you want an outboard motor that matches its versatility and ruggedness. Whether you’re exploring the Great Barrier Reef or cruising the Whitsunday Islands, your motor needs to deliver reliable power, fuel efficiency, and easy handling. Plus, it must fit well on your trailer for smooth transport. Choosing the right motor can be overwhelming with so many options available. This guide breaks down what to look for and how to pick the best outboard motor for your fishing boat adventures.

Side view of Quest Marine Q620 on trailer with outboard motor attached

Understanding the Quest Marine Q620 and Its Needs

The Quest Marine Q620 is a popular fishing boat known for its durability and versatility. It handles well in both calm island waters and the more challenging conditions of the Great Barrier Reef. This means your outboard motor must be:

• Powerful enough to handle open water and occasional rough seas

• Lightweight and compact for easy trailering and launching

• Fuel-efficient for longer trips without frequent refuelling

• Reliable and easy to maintain in remote locations

  
  

The boat’s size and weight also influence the motor choice. The Quest Marine 620 typically weighs around 600-700 kg without gear or passengers, so the motor must provide enough thrust without adding excessive weight.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Outboard Motor

Power and Horsepower

Horsepower (HP) is the most critical factor. Too little power means sluggish performance, while too much can be unsafe or inefficient. For the Quest Marine Q620, a motor between 60 to 90 HP is usually ideal. This range offers:

• Good acceleration and speed for reef and island waters

• Enough power to handle extra gear and passengers

• Efficient fuel consumption for longer trips

  
  

For example, a 75 HP motor strikes a balance between performance and economy, making it a popular choice among anglers and island explorers.

Weight and Size

Since you’ll be trailering the boat, the motor’s weight matters. Heavier motors can make launching and loading harder. Look for motors that are:

• Lightweight without sacrificing power

• Compact to fit well on the transom and trailer

  
  

Modern four-stroke motors tend to be lighter and quieter than older two-stroke models, making them easier to handle and maintain.

Fuel Efficiency and Tank Capacity

Fuel efficiency is crucial when you’re far from refuelling stations. Four-stroke outboards generally consume less fuel and produce fewer emissions. Consider:

• Fuel consumption rates (litres per hour at cruising speed)

• Whether the motor supports an external fuel tank for extended range

  
  

For reef and island trips, a motor that can run efficiently for 4-6 hours on a full tank is ideal.

Durability and Saltwater Resistance

Saltwater is harsh on engines. Choose motors with:

• Corrosion-resistant materials and coatings

• Sealed electrical components to prevent salt damage

• Easy access for cleaning and maintenance after saltwater use

  
  

Brands with a strong reputation for saltwater durability, like Yamaha, Suzuki, and Mercury, are often preferred by reef fishermen.

Noise and Vibration Levels

Quiet operation enhances your fishing experience and reduces disturbance to marine life. Four-stroke motors are generally quieter and smoother than two-strokes. Look for models with:

• Noise reduction features

• Low vibration mounts

  
  

This makes long days on the water more comfortable.

Ease of Maintenance and Service Availability

Remote locations like the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays mean you need a motor that’s easy to service. Check for:

• Availability of spare parts locally or online

• Simple maintenance routines (oil changes, spark plugs, filters)

• Clear user manuals and support from dealers

  
  

Choosing a popular brand with a strong service network in Australia will save headaches.

Comparing Popular Outboard Motor Options for the Quest Marine Q620

Yamaha F75 and F90

• Horsepower: 75 HP and 90 HP

• Weight: Around 110-130 kg

• Fuel Efficiency: Excellent four-stroke technology

• Saltwater Features: Saltwater corrosion protection, stainless steel components

• Pros: Reliable, quiet, good power-to-weight ratio

• Cons: Slightly higher price point

  
  

Yamaha’s F75 and F90 models are favorites for reef fishing due to their balance of power, durability, and fuel economy.

Suzuki DF70 and DF90

• Horsepower: 70 HP and 90 HP

• Weight: Approximately 115-135 kg

• Fuel Efficiency: Advanced fuel injection system

• Saltwater Features: Anti-corrosion finish, water-cooled exhaust

• Pros: Smooth operation, easy starting, good service network

• Cons: Slightly heavier than Yamaha

  
  

Suzuki motors offer smooth acceleration and are known for their reliability in saltwater conditions.

Mercury Four Stroke 75 and 90

• Horsepower: 75 HP and 90 HP

• Weight: Around 120-140 kg

• Fuel Efficiency: Efficient four-stroke design

• Saltwater Features: Electrolysis protection, stainless steel hardware

• Pros: Strong torque, good resale value

• Cons: Slightly louder than Yamaha and Suzuki

  
  

Mercury motors provide strong performance and are widely supported in Australia.

Trailer Compatibility and Motor Mounting Tips

When choosing your motor, consider how it will fit on your trailer. The motor’s height and weight affect:

• Trailer balance and towing safety

• Ease of launching and retrieving the boat

• Clearance for road travel and storage

  
  

Make sure the motor’s shaft length matches the Quest Marine Q

Quest Marine Q620 with 150hp Mercury Outboard

620’s transom height, usually around 20 inches (long shaft). A motor that is too short or too long can reduce performance and cause damage.

Practical Tips for Using Your Outboard Motor on Reef and Island Trips

• Flush the motor with fresh water after every saltwater trip to prevent corrosion.

• Carry spare parts like spark plugs and propellers, especially when heading to remote islands.

• Use marine-grade fuel and oil to keep the engine running smoothly.

• Check the propeller regularly for damage from coral or debris.

• Monitor fuel levels carefully and plan refuelling stops in advance.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Outboard Motor

Selecting the right outboard motor for your Quest Marine Q620 means balancing power, weight, fuel efficiency, and durability. A motor in the 60-90 HP range, preferably a four-stroke with saltwater protection, will serve you well on the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands. Brands like Yamaha, Suzuki, and Mercury offer reliable options with strong support networks.