Imho...and I'm a Charteered Marine Engineer (Yes, there is such a thing!)...albeit generally based on rather larger engines.
If you're not running the engine while Flushing, you're wasting your time. At least try to get the thermostat to open....if only partly.
It's really all about Flushing out the narrow salt water cooling passages in the cylinder head, and block etc. The prop/leg wash (prop is often plastic these days) is very much a side show. Salt will deposit in hot, narrow passages and eventually kill your engine. Mechanical cleaning almost impossible on small engines. Chemical cleaning can be risky (be very sure to dissolve deposits, not your engine!).
Bucket of water, muffs, or screw in inlet adapter are all good.
Just be very sure you are getting a good flow of fresh water out of the "tell tale". Job done.