Re: How large an outboard for emergency tow
Using an 8-10' inflatable, you could probably get the thing moving with a 9.9, but it's going to work it. A 15 would work better, but then you'll need to step up to a 10-12' boat.
Now, the more important issue. Once you get it moving, how are you going to steer and stop it? You can't hip tow it...too big. If you have someone steering for you, once any wind or current catches the houseboat, the inflatable doesn't have enough bottom to grip the water and counteract the outside forces. Now you've gone and let the houseboat and the inflatable drift into problem areas.
You might be better with a rigid hulled inflatable. But to get the grab you want, you need weight. Look into 14-16' with a 50 hp to move it safely.
Wouldn't it be better (in my opinion) to invest in a 25-40 HP kicker engine mounted on the transom for emergencies?
