This is a purely theoretical question for a cold Winter day.
Say you're on a long Ocean passage. The outboard engine has been pulled out of the motor well and stowed below.
What would be the safest way to configure the lazarette if there is a danger the cockpit could fill with water?
OPTION 1
Use the motor well plug and front cover to the lazarette. Not much water can get in the lazarette and the stern will remain buoyant.
OPTION 2
Don't use either the motor well plug or the front cover. The water can drain quickly out of the cockpit through the motor well. Almost like an open transom.