Volvo says tests have shown the propeller offers minimal drag under sail combined with effective propulsion using the steel topsail.

Compared with a fixed propeller, the four-blade model offers up to 1.5 knots higher speed under sail, says Volvo.

The company's tests with the fourblade propeller indicate results will be at least as good as those achieved with our three bladed propellers designed for smaller vessels.

According to Volvo, the blades have a unique, elliptical (high skew) shape, a design that originated with submarines to achieve the smoothest, quietest and most vibration-free operation possible.

This results, sys Volvo, propulsion that fully matches the power delivered by a fixed propeller and is about 50% better in reverse than a twoblade folding propeller.

The cost of the four blade prop is £1550 - excl VAT - against the three blade version's £800.

Volvo Penta Tel: 01923 228544 Fax: 01923 246700 Web: www.volvopenta.com