Engine/Motor Selection for a very Specialist Project

[VZ.uk]

I'm looking to build a vehicle in the next year, something not done before and as such I have no idea what sort of powerplant it should have.

In essence, it will be a single-seater, aluminium canoe with two outriggers, a dash, steering wheel connected to a rudder assembly, some form of power and throttle control and a mount for an oar for if it decides to stop working. It will also probably have to carry a radio and some safety equipment for legal reasons, but so long as I don't over-burden it the buoyancy should be sufficient from what I've worked out.

So I ask you, fine minds of this here forum, what say ye? I'm thinking along the lines of a jet ski engine (like a Kawasaki 550), but I'm open to suggestions as this really isn't my specialist area.

[gohm]

How about an outboard engine, it would reduce your building costs and make your design a bit more simple. Depending on your hull design weight & desired speed needs, you could use either an electric or gas outboard. Like a lot of outboards on anything but very small craft, the controls would be linked to your pilot house area.

[VZ.uk]

That's a very good suggestion that I'm shocked to say I didn't think of - it really should've been the first thing that came to mind.

I'll look further into what outboards are available - as size will be a major issue, I'll need to find a lot of information on dimensions, and that work out the kind of power I can afford from there.

I'm still open to other suggestions, I'm more than willing to consider anything with even the slightest hope of working for me.

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On another note, how complicated would it be to take a small engine from a motorbike etc and convert it to drive an impellor of some sort? Any ideas?

[gnomic]

I'd go with the electric outboard myself, but if your looking for crazy ideas - why not make a chemical jet or magnesium steam engine if you are going for speed - something that uses water as part of the fuel.

If you aren't, try an old fashion steam engine. Why? Because you can always find fuel and water!