Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

[valkyr]

Ok, seeing all these posts about people having problems once they're out in the water, I have the following "issues":

1.) Getting paranoid
2.) Wondering what (if any) type of backup power/propulsion I could use for my boat.

I will only be boating in lakes here in Middle Tenn.

23' Wellcraft 220 Runabout/Bowrider.

I don't think a trolling motor would work (at least not permanently attached) so what are some suggestions?
I guess I need paddles/oars at a minimum....

 

[jeeperman]

Re: Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

Some states require a paddle on board depending on size of boat of course.
Some owners hang a 9.9hp kicker.
I am almost always within sight of land and 90% of the time the wind is blowing towards shore.
Although I carry a paddle, my boat is too big for it to be practical, so I carry a retired conventional parachute.
I have used it once by hooking it onto the bow eye and letting the wind blow me to shore while I set back and relax.

 

[valkyr]

Re: Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

...I carry a retired conventional parachute.
I have used it once by hooking it onto the bow eye and letting the wind blow me to shore while I set back and relax.

Simply genius

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

I only have a 16' boat and let me tell you, paddling it is useless. I broke down one time by myself very close to the ramp and tried to paddle back into shore. I think all the boat did was pivot from side to side as I paddled on each side! A kind jetskiier took pity on me and towed me in. Ever since then I carry a 4HP kicker motor with me. I tried it out once to see if it could move the boat and I was suprised how well it was able to move it. It would still be a slow trip home but it's better than the alternative! Not to mention, I think just having that 4 in the boat keeps the 85 from breaking. If you have somewhere in your boat to stash a 10-15HP kicker it would be excellent piece of mind. This year I installed a proper kicker bracket which should improve its effectiveness.

 

[QC]

Re: Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

While the parachute is a great idea it's obviously only good if the wind is blowing the right direction. The best device you have on board for a dead engine is called an anchor!!! It'll keep you out of trouble until you figure out what to do which is most likely a tow. Kickers are great, but not all boats are setup for them. Also, if your problem is in your fuel supply both engines can be a problem if you fuel from the same source. Sooooo . . . I mention this only because many people forget the safety aspects of an anchor. It is the first thing you should consider if your are dead in the water and drifting the wrong way

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

The only way a paddle is practical in a power boat is if the boat is light and doesn't have too much sheer and you can sit on the very bow and paddle. Actually, if you get on the bow with a paddle in your hand, ususally someone will take pity on you and tow you. It is not the same if you try paddling from amidships, no such sympathy.

I once pulled myself to shore by tossing and retrieving the anchor. I nearly had three heart attacks, but I did make progress. If there is a current you will need to toss two anchors, alternately.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

Carry a flare gun...don't go out unless others are around that can see ya and help

 

[salty87]

Re: Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

is there a tow service company on your lake (towboat us or vessel assist)? i've called friends in the past to drop their boats in and give me a tow but i'm gonna get the tow service instead. friends have either moved or gotten rid of their boats.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Thoughts on secondary mode of propulsion in case of emergency?

For me a kicker with a self contained tank and a spare gallon of gas for it ready to go. Anchor and Paddles (it is also law here), VHF radio and cellphone.
I have all but the kicker and am actively looking for one. Probably store it under the bow when i get one and use occasionally to make certain it is running well.