Cruising Sailors Forum Archive

Outboard motor propeller guards

Back in 2003 I wrote about my experiences trying prop protectors on my outboard motors. At the time I had an outboard on my trimaran (a 30-footer at that time) and bought models (2 different units) to fit that boat and my dinghy. I just stumbled on that page again. (link below)

Neither one worked well, and it was disappointing because I had high hopes for those products. Although my experience was subjective enough that it could be considered faulty science, I thought it might be in the public's best interest to share that experience and the opinions formed.

I wrote:

"My motive for taking the time to make this page is that the product concept (of adding safety and improving performance) is appealing, but in my limited experience the reality disappointing (as you will read below). These are costly accessories and I think consumers ought to be aware of what they may be getting (before they purchase). I spent about $275 for the two products; all combined, and consider it wasted money. The principal benefit gained was experience, which I’m passing on for free. If you don't want the details, scroll down for a summary below."