Boat engine evolutions tell a story of technological innovations which have changed our way of sailing. Prior to the advent of the internal combustion engine, the distinctive feature of early 20th century steamers was what was known as the engine hatch, an opening which enabled crew to observe the workings of the engine and the bridge, with its compass and pressure gauges. The Piemonte steamship’s wheel was also emblematic beacuse it is still in its original position today. At the time its function was to allow for manual rudder regulation. In the 1950s and 60s diesel engines made by Italian companies began to be used on motorboats, with examples being the FIAT straight six cylinder, 4 stroke engines with approx. 350 steam horsepower.
