Perkins Diesel Generators: Performance, Price & Ship Types
Perkins is a familiar name in the diesel world, and while it’s more often seen in land-based applications, its marine generator line has found a home on smaller to mid-size vessels. Known for simplicity, ease of repair, and widespread parts availability, Perkins generators are often used on commercial vessels that don’t need the most advanced tech — just something that runs, runs, and keeps on running. For coastal vessels, trawlers, ferries, and support boats, they’re a solid workhorse.
| Perkins Marine Generator Positioning | |
|---|---|
| Where It Fits in the Market | |
| Cost Tier | Low to Mid – especially competitive in the 30–200 kW range. |
| Typical Users | Fishing vessels, small ferries, trawlers, workboats, and support craft. Sometimes used as auxiliary units on larger ships. |
| Performance Reputation | Reliable for steady output in mild-to-moderate conditions. Not built for the harshest offshore applications but strong for everyday coastal ops. |
| Serviceability | One of its biggest strengths — parts and know-how are available almost everywhere. Easy to maintain, especially in port-based service hubs. |
| Compliance | Many marine-certified models available; most meet IMO Tier II standards. Some newer gensets approach Tier III when paired with SCR systems. |
| Best Fit | Operators who prioritize repairability and global support over top-tier emissions or automation. Very good for coastal and auxiliary use. |
| Perkins Generator – Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| Strengths and Tradeoffs for Marine Use | |
| ✅ Pros |
- Known for extreme reliability in lower-power ranges - Very simple mechanical design makes onboard repairs easy - Global support and widespread parts availability - Good fuel efficiency at constant RPMs - Budget-friendly option for coastal fleets and support vessels |
| ❌ Cons |
- Not ideal for high-output needs above 400 kW - Lacks cutting-edge tech like load balancing and smart controls - Limited Tier III options without modifications - May feel “basic” compared to Cummins, Volvo, or Mitsubishi models |
| Perkins Generator Pricing Guide | |
|---|---|
| Approximate Price Range by Output (Base Generator Only) | |
| 30–100 kW | $9,000 – $17,000 Common on small commercial boats, coastal ferries, and fishing vessels. |
| 100–250 kW | $17,000 – $30,000 Mainstay range for auxiliary use on mid-sized vessels. |
| 250–400 kW | $35,000 – $55,000 Used where moderate continuous power is needed (tugs, research, support vessels). |
| Over 400 kW | Rare for Perkins — often custom or outsourced. Expect over $50,000+ if sourced. |
Our team helps vessel owners like you find the right diesel generator for your ship — without the pressure. We work with top suppliers to help you compare specs, get the best pricing, and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re outfitting a new build or replacing an old unit, we’re here to make the process easier and faster. Get started with our quick quote request form below.