Description
Overview of the Canaline 38 Marine Engine
The NEW Canaline 38 38hp Marine Diesel Engine & Gearbox Package is designed as a reliable propulsion system for inland waterway boats and canal vessels.
The engine produces 38 brake horsepower (bhp) and uses a four-cylinder diesel configuration, providing steady torque and smooth operation for displacement hull vessels operating at moderate cruising speeds.
This engine is commonly supplied as a complete marine propulsion package, which includes the diesel engine and a PRM125 mechanical gearbox, ensuring efficient power transmission to the propeller shaft.
The Canaline engine series has been developed to provide simple operation, durability, and dependable propulsion for boats operating on canals, rivers, and inland waterways.
Where This Engine Is Commonly Used
The Canaline 38 marine diesel engine is typically installed in vessels designed for inland waterway cruising.
Common boat applications include:
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Narrowboats
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Canal boats
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Inland cruising boats
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Riverboats
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Small displacement vessels
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Leisure canal craft
These vessels require engines that provide steady low-rpm propulsion and efficient fuel consumption rather than high-speed performance.
Because of its balanced power output, the Canaline 38 is suitable for boats around 40–60 feet in length operating on canals and inland waterways.
Engine Design and Build Quality
The NEW Canaline 38 Marine Diesel Engine is engineered with marine-grade components designed for durability and ease of maintenance.
Key design features include:
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4-cylinder marine diesel engine
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38 horsepower output
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2.2-liter displacement
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Skin tank or keel cooling system
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PRM125 marine gearbox
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Electric start system
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Complete wiring loom and control panel
The PRM125 gearbox is widely used in marine propulsion systems because it provides reliable torque transfer and smooth gear engagement.
The cooling system is designed for inland boats that use skin tank cooling, allowing the engine to operate efficiently without raw water intake.
Why Boat Owners Choose This Engine
Boat owners often select the NEW Canaline 38 38hp Marine Diesel Engine & Gearbox Package because it provides dependable propulsion and simple maintenance for inland waterway boats.
Advantages include:
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Reliable four-cylinder diesel performance
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Efficient fuel consumption for long cruising journeys
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Simple mechanical design
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Complete engine and gearbox package
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Smooth low-speed propulsion for canal navigation
Because of these characteristics, Canaline engines are frequently chosen for new narrowboat builds and repowering projects.
Is This Engine Right for Your Boat?
The Canaline 38 marine diesel engine is best suited for vessels that operate primarily on inland waterways.
This engine is ideal for:
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Narrowboats used on canals
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Inland cruising boats
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Leisure canal vessels
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River cruising boats
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Boat builders constructing canal boats
Its moderate horsepower and smooth torque delivery make it particularly effective for displacement hull boats traveling at canal cruising speeds.
Technical Specifications
Key specifications of the NEW Canaline 38 38hp Marine Diesel Engine & Gearbox Package include:
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Engine type: 4-cylinder marine diesel
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Power output: 38 hp
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Displacement: approximately 2.2 liters
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Cooling system: Skin tank or keel cooling
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Starting system: Electric start
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Gearbox: PRM125 marine gearbox
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Configuration: Inboard propulsion system
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Package includes: engine, gearbox, control panel, wiring loom
These specifications allow the engine to provide dependable propulsion for inland cruising boats.
Availability and Support
Canaline marine engines are commonly used in inland waterways boating and are supported by marine engine dealers and service centers that specialize in narrowboats and canal craft.
Because Canaline engines are designed for simple mechanical operation, they are generally easy to maintain and service.
Boat owners researching this engine often compare other models within the Canaline lineup such as:
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Canaline 42 marine engine
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Canaline 52 marine engine
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Canaline 60 marine engine
These engines offer different horsepower levels depending on vessel size and propulsion requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much horsepower does the Canaline 38 engine produce?
The Canaline 38 marine diesel engine produces 38 horsepower, making it suitable for narrowboats and inland cruising vessels.
What gearbox is included with the Canaline 38 package?
The engine is commonly supplied with a PRM125 mechanical marine gearbox, which provides reliable power transmission to the propeller shaft.
What boats use the Canaline 38 engine?
The engine is typically installed in narrowboats, canal boats, and inland cruising vessels operating on canals and rivers.
What cooling system does the Canaline 38 use?
Many installations use skin tank or keel cooling systems, which are commonly used in inland waterway vessels.
Is the Canaline 38 suitable for offshore boats?
No. The Canaline 38 is primarily designed for inland waterways and canal boats, where low-speed cruising and reliability are more important than high horsepower.
Brand new crated Canaline 38 38hp Four Cylinder Keel Cooled Marine Diesel Engine Package Complete With PRM125 Gearbox (other gearbox options available on request), Control Panel, Wiring Harness & Flexible Engine Mountings With Full Canaline Warranty
However, at Marine Engines Direct, we offer industry leading part exchange deals so contact us today with details of your old engine and see how much you could save!
We can arrange delivery anywhere in the UK or Worldwide. Please contact us for a bespoke quotation.
As authorised Canaline dealers, we can offer the full range of Canaline engines, spares and installation components. With a wide range of new engine packages and equipment available in stock for immediate delivery, if you are thinking of repowering, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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