Well ... I'm definitely no expert but just had to join in :-). I'd go
outboard in this situation with logic as follows ... safe haven close by,
you can pick up a used outboard for next to nothing and if it was me, that's
what I would do and consider it a throwaway if something goes really wrong.
And if a repair is required, just drop it off and go sailing ... maybe even
beg a loaner off the shop. All they're used for around here is to get out of
the boat basin ... and that doesn't take much hp given a sailboats hull
design and efficiency once it gets moving. Geez ... those things move
forward with a gentle breeze applied to the hull :-)


"engsol" wrote in message
...
If this has been beat to death before, my apology.

I'm looking for a boat to enjoy upon retirement this May. Being poor,
I'll have to settle for an older boat, 30-32 feet. I've seen a number of
boats
in my price range on my list, but have rejected the ones with an OB. But
then I got to wondering...should I do so?

The advantage of an OB is cost, doesn't take up interior room, at least
semi-reliable these days. But then I wonder about enough power in a
seaway. The area I plan to sail (San Juan Islands) is quite sheltered....
wind chop, but seldom any significant swells. A safe haven is rarely more
than 4 - 5 hours away.

So what am I missing, or haven't thought of, as regards to OB power?

Thanks,
Norm