Do I need an engine?

[Eric Grannis]

I'm planning on buy a Javelin. Do I need a motor? I'm planning on sailing in a bay between the North and South Forks of Long Island. If I brought two paddles, could my wife and I paddle the boat to shore if the wind died down? If I do need a motor, any recommendations?Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

Set the boat up for a sculling oar

Eric - An engine's always a nice thing to have in a pinch, but not a necessity. It would extend the uses of your boat, but they're heavy, noisy, expensive.I think on your boat I would install a sculling lock in the transom, then carry a good sized oar. If you've never sculled a boat, you might be surprised at how effectively it will move you.In the meantime, try this on a light air day. Sheet the main tight to the center of the boat and drop the jib. Then with one person holding the helm center - this person should not scull - have the other start to rock the boat back and forth rhythmically with the centerboard down. You will need to really get it going for this to work but its amazing. The wash from the centerboard will propel the boat amazingly well.Its an old Laser class trick.Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Warren]

Need An Engine?

If you want to preserve your marriage, I suggest you invest in a small outboard motor. What you want is light weight (under 40 lbs.). You might look at the Johnson/Everude 3-4 hp models. You will want to stick with a 2 stroke because of weight. If you can add a lifting type bracket to your stern, you may be able to lift the motor out of the water when under sail.Good Luck!Warren

 

[Don Paul]

Need an outboard?

During the 1970's I owned a Javelin (#3488) and sailed her on Buzzard's Bay. Initially I did not have an outboard.I tried paddling with the boom paddle (supplied by O'Day) with no luck. The problem was that wind, tide, and the high freeboard of the bow would not allow any progress with a paddle. The second season came along and found the boat equipped with a 3 h.p. British Seagull which weighed less than 30 lbs. Therefore my marriage was saved.Don

 

[Shari]

from a beginning sailor

From a beginning sailor - an outboard motor can be your best friend