Myth: Those who run offshore with one engine will eventually regret it
Reality – Talk to a recreational fisherman, cruiser or go-fast enthusiast who has sat adrift because his single power source died and you’ll get support for this theory. But consider that if you have a fuel problem, it’s going to affect all the engines. And if you hit something, it’s likely to disable all the props. Commercial fishing boats, tugs and other workboats all have single engines and go out in the nastiest weather. Their secret? Good maintenance.
Myth: Lakes don’t exhibit very rough seas
Reality – The very fact that lakes aren’t vast and limitless is what can make them treacherous. Shallower than the oceans, lakes have waves that are steeper and closer together for any given amount of wind. Surrounded by relatively close shorelines (even on the Great Lakes) compared with the ocean, lake waves are reflected, bouncing off opposing shores and amplifying other waves, creating confused seas with waves often twice the height of those produced by the wind alone. Think lakes are calm? Try some lake boating. At the least, research how waves really work.
Myth: Don’t run down your gas tank past half full
Reality – The fear is that your fuel system will pick up contaminants from the bottom of the tank. Then they will get sucked into the engine and destroy it. Guess what? All fuel tanks draw from the bottom, so you’re always drawing from there.
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