Happily, the dinghy slid in nicely, though I had to keep the trunk open. The owners were kind enough to give me a discount for being a friendly student, so the dinghy only cost $200, and it's in perfect condition. A new model costs $600.
I wanted a fiberglass dinghy because I like to row, and I'd rather not rely on outboard engines. I've been out at the Channel Islands and watched people struggle with their outboards, the dad working at it while the family is stranded on the sailboat. This is because an inflatable is very difficult to row, especially with more than one people. Meanwhile, we cast the skiff in minutes and were immediately enjoying ourselves.
Plus, who really wants to turn on a noisy, smelly outboard once they arrive in the peaceful islands? Living out on the anchorage, I enjoy the daily routine of rowing. It keeps me fit, taking no longer than 15 minutes each way, and I have some quiet time to reflect and watch the stars and clouds. The key is to have a good set of oars and a stiff dinghy. I get passed by the hawaiian outrigger canoe club rowing their fast boats. It's nice to include exercise in the daily task of commuting home.
Putting the friends to work, rowing to the wharf
However, when winter comes and the anchorage moves farther away, I may have to invest in a small outboard, particularly since stormy weather will make rowing very challenging. I'm looking into getting an electric outboard, but a decent one (equivalent 2HP) costs over $1200. Meanwhile a nice outboard with 4HP may cost as little as $500. If I take that route, I'll definitely go for a 4 stroke, not a 2 stroke, since 2 strokes are incredibly polluting.
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