Inboard electric drive

The quote was for their smallest motor only.
I respect your expertise and I will be going that route, because I will be going electric. I have been looking for schematics and DIY info. Lots of marine salvage places around me. And lots of used golf cart part places around me. I just have to get a plan and work to it.
Thanks

 

The electric inboard could be not the best configuration. Very little thrust in a turn. Reverse can be no steering forces.

Anything that swivels like a trolling motor is fine. FULL thrust when pointed in any direction. even in reverse. BUUUT You will have heavy batteries for limited duration.
Small OB 3 to 6 hp is ideal. Go for a gearshift reverse model. FAR easier in windy tight dock areas & prevents back strains. Gas is lighter than batteries & runs forever in those H P ranges. Great for going against wind & current.
Drop the sails & get in fast if a squall pops up.

If you go with Troll or OB . PUT A ROPE on it & tie it strongly to the boat while lifting it out of the motor well or putting it into the motor well.
Always disconnect the fuel line when moving the motor in or out. Easier & safer. Keeps the fuel lines & tank dryer if you lose the motor in the motor well.

 

off the wall

To completely change the concept, how about using a salt water trolling motor and building it into the bottom of your rudder? I've seen pictures of it and with the rudder down all you see is the power cables. I would imagine that they could be hidden rather easily. Just the power head is used on the rudder with the controls being moved inboard. The ones I've see were very slick indeed.

 

I did that on a 8' runabout wood boat for the kids. Terrific control of any direction. I just added a rectangular piece to the trolling motor vertical shaft to increase rudder effect. Also a turn fin in the bow . Kids can dock that boat better than a adult in a I/O.