Nick,
I think the problem with the twin engined idea is the physical size of the boat required.
One of these engines, coupled to a suitable boiler should easily cope with a 4 to 5 ft long hull, depending on displacement, a twin engine layout would require a 6 to 7 ft hull, or maybe even longer.
One of that size changes all the logistics, a bigger car to carry it in, two man launches, somewhere to store it, etc.
When you go to a larger size, usually loadsa money is involved, and it is that part which can't be hidden from the better half.
Why do we need that great big pickup? Are you sure we need a three car garage? Lifting that is going to murder my back.
At one time, my car choice was based around how large my model boats were, or how many I wanted to transport to the lake.
Then I came to my senses, and made boats that fitted into a smaller car.
Bogs