Electric outboard for emergency return to beach?

Hey folks. Recently, I had a non-genuine mainsail halyard fail (wire parted company with the rope) on my Wave, resulting in a downed sail while we were in the middle of the lake. We still had the jib, but needed to go upwind to get back to the launching spot, so that was no help. After taking down the jib and spending a looooong time paddling back to the beach, neither of us were particularly keen on doing that again. It's doable...but with one person paddling and the other steering, it takes a very long time to get home...especially if you're being blown downwind the whole time. That's time I'd rather spend sailing, so the sooner I can get back and get going again, the better!

I just saw these: https://epropulsionaustralia.com.au/pag ... c-outboard

That looks like just the ticket for an emergency return trip back to the launching spot...or even just an easy trip back if the wind dies unexpectedly.

The previous owner of my Wave had a small petrol outboard mounted to the rear beam, for driving the kids around when there was no wind. I assume this would be much the same to fit, and a whole lot lighter...and there's no fuel etc to worry about.

The one linked above looks ideal, because it would lay completely flat on the trampoline and be easy to bungee down, as opposed to the other types I've seen that look more like a traditional petrol outboard.

I'm just curious to know if anyone else has used something similar on their Hobie?

Not sure if they are sold in your part of the world....some folks like the battery powered Torquedo.
Not cheap, but they do work rather well.

Other folks use the little 2 HP Honda, a great little motor.

good luck

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2015 H16, with spin,
SOLD 1989 Hobie SX18 Sail # 1947 "In Theory..."
'Only two things are infinite, the universe, and human stupidity. But I'm not sure about the former.'

That's a nice outboard. I've got a 2012 Torqeedo 1003 and it does the job, but I'd probably get something like that if I were to replace it. epropulsion is a more modern solution.

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Yet another Bob!
"Firefly" - 2012 Hobie Getaway with wings and spinnaker
"Sparky" - 1978 Sunfish (OK, it's not a Hobie, but it's a fun little craft)
Too many canoes and kayaks

We use a standard MinnKota trolling motor with a lightweight battery on our Hobie Getaway. Works great for getting back to shore when the wind dies off or when maneuvering thru a marina.

Would you be willing to share more details about your setup?