A ship propulsion device is configured so that a control device operates an engine at a first engine speed when a clutch is in a disengaged state; so that, based on the input of an input device, the control device changes the state of the clutch from the disengaged state to a partially engaged state and operates the engine at a second engine speed that is higher than the first engine speed; so that, based on the detection of a rotational speed detection device, the control device operates the engine at an engine speed that is lower than the second engine speed; and so that, based on the input of an input device, the control device changes the state of the clutch from the partially engaged state to an engaged state.