Twin engines of 20 hp + can either be sail-drives or shaft drives. If sail-drives are used, they are located under the aft bunks whereas shaft-drives are located forward of the aft bulkhead, under the sole. Under power with twin 27 hp sail-drives the Inspiration 1050 gets along at 11 knots + and for cruising, these engines give added safety as she will handle well even with one shut down.
Under sail she achieves remarkable speeds and good stability with easy manoeuvrability without any effort from the helmsman . She points well and steering is exceedingly light and positive, The wheel is on the port side of the cockpit and from this position, the helmsman has good visibility and easy access to the sail controls. The Inspiration 1050 can be called a true motorsailer as its sailing performance is well supported by its excellent motoring capabilities. The appeal of the Inspiration 1050 is that it suits the real cruising and sailing enthusiast and the motor sailor who may have previously only owned a motor boat and now wishes to incorporate some sailing into his recreation on the water.