RE Outboards...obviously they are less than ideal for offshore and coastal work since they are boat finicky (compared to inboards) and the prop becmes airborne just during those times you need it in the water most.
That said...it is NOT a safety hazzard as long as the boat and captain are good. Hundreds make it down the ICW and to the Bahamas every year quite safely. The keys are:
- An absolute dedication to staying put when the wind/wave forcast will not allow you to motor safely.
- Staying not more than 12 hours from an all weather inlet so you can sail and/or motor to safety before anything gets really nasty.
- Making sure your engine is fully maintained and in good working order before leaving.
- Good fuel...not the stuff left in the can from last year!
- The ability to do minor engine repairs yourself. Clean fuel lines, Clean carb, replace and gap spark pug etc.
- An alternate way to charge your batteries for navigation/radio and house needs (Honda portable gen or passive solar/wind)
Good luck!