a small watercraft and outboard motor are configured so that operator - activated command signals are communicated from a control unit in the hull of the watercraft via a local area network to engine component actuators in the outboard motor . the local area network enables a simplified connection to be used between the watercraft hull and the outboard motor to provide communication of the command signals as well as to provide communication of navigational and engine parameter information . the local area network enables the user to operate the watercraft with increased reliability . because of the small number of control connections required between the hull and the outboard motor , the process for installing the outboard motor onto the watercraft hull is greatly simplified , which reduces the time and the cost initial installation and the cost of repair .