<< Blowing 30 MPH, seas 6 - 9', motoring in with 3.5 w/internal fuel tank...
Run
out of fuel at inlet... (Wasn't that obvious?) >>
You could have saved a few bucks with this little scenario by being a little
more cautious and making certain your tank was topped off before entering the
aforementioned inlet.
I have found that an accurate knotmeter (I use a Speedmate) helps immensely.
I know how far I can go on a tank of gas--exactly. When I anticipate rough
water, a close inlet or other challenges, I make sure my tank is topped off.
I know some sailors keep gas in small containers, such as plastic oil bottles,
where they can just undo the cap and dump a full tank of fuel in the motor
quickly and easily. I've never felt that really necessary, although I do keep
my gas in containers that are small enough to handle easily. A one or one and
a half gallon can is easier to handle than a five gallon can and I can go all
day with a one gallon can and still come home with half of it left. I have
also found that the mechanical lift motor mount helps in rough water in that I
am able to raise the motor clear out of the water and the fuel filler cap is
at a comfortable level to be able to fill er up, even when it's rough.
There is one advantage to your little scenario--while the boat is up on the
rocks, it will be easy to access the swing keel for inspection or maintenance.
Geoff
P-15 Lollipop
No. Lake Tahoe, NV