How slow do you sail ?

[Wansworth]

Yesterday ,passing over the ria de Vigo on the rande suspension bridge noticed a small ketch coming up with the tide under mizzen only,light breeze from the north west,expect they where enjoying a nice sunny morning,relaxed!

 

[TSB240]

I think the decision to use engine is based on cost and carrying capacity/range of fuel. We now turn on the Diesel donkey if we get below 3 knots and cant use additional sail to maintain a 4.5 knot plan. We used to wait until 2 knots when we had a petrol outboard powered cruiser. Both donks equal power. Petrol consumption 5 times diesel! Range under diesel realistically never limited . Motored for 13 hours in dense fog and no wind last year. Carrying 65 litres of petrol is just plain stupid . I reckon if diesel cost went up 5 times we would all be sailing more and motoring slower.