I use a trail log for longer trips such as cross Channel, but even then only if I feel like it.
BTW I got a much better boxed ship's trail log with the oil tins etc from an antique shop in Petworth for £90 quid - it's an antique not A22 kit you'll be relieved to know.
For everyday use I rely on GPS, as my boat has no holes through the hull; a couple of years ago I and a chum did ' speed runs ' up and down Emsworth Channel ( luckily it was a westerly so reach both ways ) - to emulate the speed runs by any boat - or aircraft - to prove my claim of 7 knots - we managed well over that both ways.
I don't like paddlewheel logs as they're inaccurate, mean a hole in the hull and pick up weed, and wee beasties take up residence midweek; trail logs also pick up weed but when they do it's obvious.
BTW The trail log thrums and vibrates at a low frequency throughout the boat, so even off watch in my sleeping bag I can tell what's going on.