I would have never thought that this would be an issue. Having started our
family cruising in an O'Day 23 with a 9.9 Johnson and graduating to an S2
9.1 with a Yanmar 2GM (with several larger rentals scattered in between and
after including a couple of schooners) I have some experience with inboard
diesel versus outboard gas.

As our first family boat, the O'Day was a delight. Our home harbor was a
sailboat haven. You learned not to use the engine. In those days, there was
a trash dock up to which you learned to sail and drop the trash into the
barrels. Those who motored were shunned. You sailed to the mooring; if you
used the motor you risked ridicule. Yet, there were times when you needed to
run the outboard. Transiting Woods Hole required use of the outboard.
However, a steep following sea approaching the Hole from the south would
often drown the outboard. The water would come over the transom and the
engine would start to sputter. "Putt, putt, putt, varoom." The look from the
children and spouse would be answered by, "Don't worry, it is just gasping
for air." My look of confidence was not shared by my brain which was
thinking "this is stupid, get an inboard."

The S2 was a great upgrade. No gas cans in the cockpit. No concern about
water over the transom drowning the engine. It was easy to single hand
(after roller furling and lazy jacks; and an autopilot which I swore I would
never use). It also had a head in which I could stand. Prudence still
required keeping the engine running while transiting Woods Hole, but I did
not have to worry about a following sea drowning the engine.

The S2 had a transom mounted rudder. It could turn on a dime. I loved it. I
have sailed a good number of boats, but I still loved the stern mount. I
think it is more work, but for the feel of the boat you cannot beat it.

Tom


"Lee308" wrote in message
oups.com...
These two choices seem to vary widely in sailboats between 25 and 32
ft. What are your opinions on each. This boat will be a crusier, not a
marina livaboard.
Speed of boat is not an issue.

1) Diesel inboard or over the stern gas outboard?
Outboard easy to reach and repair/replace, no worry of shaft seal
leak and less thru hulls, but small diesel's are very fuel effcient
plus large alternator.
2) Over the stern rudder or binnacle/shaft type rudder?
Once more, seems the over the stern rudder would be less
problematical and repairable even at sea. No thru hulls or gears
would seem better.

Yout thoughts would be appreciated.
Lee (looking for my cruiser)