What outboard?

[Aquaboy]

The smaller outboards are usually single cylinders so you only really have a single chance of it starting. The 8's and above are twins and then 3 or more cylinders as you get larger so each time it turns over there are multiple firing opportunity's.

Single cylinder motorcycles can be a pain as well.

99% time with a small outboard its a little water or crap in the carb that's the problem.
Always open the carb drain screw for a few seconds before you try and start and it will be fine.

 

[mainsail1]

One of these would be nice
https://seamarknunn.com/acatalog/Torqeedo-Cruise-Motors-p1.html

The trouble is that once you have bought the motor (if over 3hp) you have to fork out another load of dosh for the battery or batteries. A torqeedo battery will set you back at least another £2500.

 

[Wansworth]

As op I would be thinking of sculling over the stern as motive power apart from sails the engine a very basic light weight engine to get me somewhere within sheltered waters or a harbour,looks like a 6hp would do the job,thanks for all replies.