On Sun, 21 May 2006 12:30:59 +0000, marierdj wrote:

I never had an outboard engine. I have always used a set of oars with my
little rigid dinghy.
Now I am looking at getting an inflatable and they do not row as well as
a rigid dinghy so I need an outboard engine.

We use a soft-bottomed 3-person Zodiac fitted with a 1/4hp MinnKota
electric motor that I got for free. I use a small 12v
motorcycle/snowmobile battery for power. The motor and battery together
weigh about 10kg and stow easily in the lazarette. I can cruise around an
anchorage for about 2-3hrs. I recharge using a solar cell. No oil, gas,
mess or noise. I can sneak up on nature for great photos etc...