"Are you asking tiller vs. wheel? I prefer the tiller for small boats,
a wheel for larger boats. If you're asking about the rudder hung on
the stern or a post, that depends a lot on the total design of the
boat"

Some sailboats have a shaft coming out of the deck to attach a tiller.
These still have a shaft running down through the deck to the rudder.

A rudder "hung on the stern" is what I'm comparing to. This seems less
of a maintenance issue at sea. By that, I mean one less thru-hull
fitting to deal with.

Thanks for the responce on the engines, that question is answered.
Diesel is the way to go for long cruise's.