A problem with stern power and/or trusters is that C-Dories are relatively flat-bottomed, and thus move sideways easily, and have a lot of “sail” area above that can catch that wind. You need a fair amount of forward speed to keep “steerage”, too slow and the wind, tide or current take over your movement.
My solution was to mount a remotely controlled trollling motor on the bow, a Minnkota 80 lb Terrova. Yes, you can set it to 90 degreess to the centerline and use it to move the bow side to side like a bow thruster, or you can just use it to maneuver into the dock and only use the main when you need to move the stern side-to-side (my normal option). If you dock on the starboard side, for instance, you can “pin” the boat to the dock by providing stern and bow thrust toward that side. Great if you are both the captain and the first mate.
You can also use it in a pinch to move the boat short distances (i.e. a few miles), but this will be relatively slow, only a few kph.
Mine also has “spot lock”, which acts as an anchor, keeping you in the same spot regardless of wind, current, or tide, at least if there is not too much of either. Great for fishing.
There is a bit of discussion on this if you search for “trolling motors”. Those of us that have gone this route seem to believe they are very usefu
