Hi Bille... I'll go along with Connie.... the 2hp will be fine to get in and out of a slip, and in modest waters. I once used a 36 pound thrust trolling motor to get in/out of the slip while my Evinrude was being repaired. I didn't get out into the open waters of Lake Lanier... what I'd call modest waters, but it didn'thave the umpff to push it up the trailer like the Evinrude did...or even my 3hp Seagull. I'd consider where you sail and where you may _want _ to sail then decide. If you're running against tides or bucking high waves, 4 or even 6 hp may be necessary. The previous owner of Stargazer sailed in the Gulf of Mexico off Ft. Myers, Fla. He had a 8hp.... perhaps a bit of overkill, but it's the same size and weight as the 6hp. model. And he always made it home. Harvey/ Ga M-17 Stargazer #294