When sailing a little open boat at sea there are times when an outboard engine can get you into a fast drying river or harbour when the wind has died and the ebbing tide is too strong for rowing.
Sail and oar boaters will plan to avoid this situation but, as we know, the ‘best laid plans…’ In this situation, an outboard motor can help you to avoid a cold night afloat waiting for the next flood tide and hoping the weather remains manageable. It does not hurt to have a back up and I keep my outboard on tickover when entering Rye Harbour in particular.
