looks! I've been initially pretty skeptical about just how 'at risk' they were but further reflection leads me to think they did really make the right call. 1) They were experienced 2) They'd been trying to find solutions for several days. 3) Compromised rudders/rudder stocks probably did lead to some degree of water ingress 4) From my own multihull experience, it wouldn't take more than 50 gallons of water in the engine space, sloshing around, to serriously compromise the engine, wiring and hoses. 5) Without rudders, running on just one engine would be impossible, as would attempting to sail 6)If you are 'out there' with only the hope of drifting indefinitely, what's your alternative? Starving? Probably towing? but the time to both await the tow and make the tow was probably too great.

Nope, it was the right call. However, a 1.5 inch diameter rudder shaft does seem pretty small to me. Multihull rudders may be small but at higher speeds, they still take pretty significant loads. Whatcha wanna bet the builder makes 'em bigger on hulls not yet built? (assuming this doesn't affect the attractiveness/marketability of the design)

PS I used 'attractiveness' loosely as it's far from that to my eye.....