Re: How many hours are too many? 25 to 50 hours per year is average useage in my area. 424 hours in 12 years seems fine. 1500 hours would mean rebuild time if the engine is well looked after. not exactly a rare boat with rare features, so if the price doesn't beat others with lower hours, move on.. there's no shortage of low hour boats. of course, not many 18 footers have hour meters.