Abstract: An outboard drive involves an improved exhaust system that increases the reverse thrust produced by the outboard drive. The exhaust system includes a first exhaust passage and a second exhaust passage that stems from a first exhaust passage. A flow control device operates within the exhaust system to control exhaust gas flow through second passage depending upon the drive condition (either forward or reverse) of the outboard drive. The flow control device permits exhaust gas flow through the second passage when the outboard drive operates in reverse, while inhibiting exhaust gas flow through the second passage when the outboard drive operates under a forward drive condition. In this manner, the improved exhaust system reduces exhaust gas back pressure and thrust degradation due to exhaust gas entrainment in the propeller when the outboard drive operates in reverse.