What is a boat “get-home” system, and does it actually work in an emergency?
Yes, a small outboard can move a heavy displacement boat, though with limited steering and fuel range. Mounted off-center and behind the rudder, control is reduced, and response is slow, but it may (hopefully) provide enough thrust to get-er-home.
More than a decade ago, I installed an outboard bracket to carry the dinghy motor on the back of Kraken, my 44-year-old Nordic Tug.
The transom-mounted bracket allows me to store the 5hp Honda and easily transfer it to and from the dinghy. Thinking way ahead, I mounted the bracket down low so that if I ever needed an emergency push or trolling kicker, I would lower the motor, connect the fuel line, and away we'd go.
Well, it finally happened.
Last month, the tug made a strange sound, so I shut off the motor and began drifting. Because I had forgotten how the mechanism worked and fiddling with it while hanging over the transom was very uncomfortable, it took me a few minutes to get the prop in the water and the fuel line connected. After about ten pulls, the motor came to life and we were ready to go.
Holding the cowling
Facing backward, I pointed it at what I guessed was straight ahead. I shoved the gearshift into forward and twisted the tiller to a medium-fast idle. At first, we didn't move, but then it was apparent we were actually making headway. Because I was hanging over the back and couldn't see where we were going, I yelled to Linda, asking if we were pointed okay, or if I should try steering. Her answer was not helpful.
I made my way inside the cabin and determined we were indeed headed for a mud flat. I turned the wheel and observed an agonizingly slow response. The gps showed we were making 4 mph, but our smallish rudder is designed to have the force of the diesel engine pushing our 18" prop wash against it. The outboard is far over on one side and actually behind the rudder. Nevertheless, we began turning away from the shallows.
So, the system worked. I can't say I am impressed with the performance, but it will beat using the canoe paddle that I keep on board. The two-gallon fuel tank will be very limiting and I am aware that the outboard can't be lowered with the dinghy on its davits.
I know others have get-home plans and motors, and I thought some might benefit from hearing my experience.
Oh, and Kraken, as always, it was fine.
