Launching your boat from its trailer into the water may seem like a daunting task for newcomers but with the right knowledge and practice, it can become a routine part of your boating experience. Properly launching ensures a safe and smooth entry into the water. In this article, we’ll teach you the step-by-step process of launching your boat using any types of boat trailer:

Prepare Firsthand

Before heading to the boat ramp, make sure you have all the necessary equipment and documentation in order.

Boat trailer: Make sure it’s in good condition, including tyres, brakes, and lights.

Boat: Check that your boat is securely fastened to the trailer.

Tow vehicle: Ensure that it’s suitable for towing your boat and trailer. Check tire pressure, hitch, and lights.

Safety equipment: Have life jackets, a fire extinguisher, and any required boating documents on hand. You can get all your safety equipment in marine boat shops near you.

Boating permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits or licenses for your boat and trailer.

Personal belongings: Remove any non-essential items from the boat.

Choose the Right Boat Ramp

Select a boat ramp that suits your boat’s size and type. If you’re in a marina or a pier this might be an easier process. If you’re launching a boat without any ramp, find a sloped shore where you can do the launching safely. Remember that larger boats will require a wider ramp with deeper water access, so find a ramp that has these features.

Approach the Boat Ramp

Drive your tow vehicle and boat trailer to the boat ramp. Follow any posted signs or instructions regarding parking and queuing.

Prepare Your Trailer and Boat for Launching

·         Do these steps before you enter the water:

·         Shift your boat’s drain plug to the open position.

·         Disconnect any tie-down straps securing the boat to the trailer.

·         Loosen the boat’s bow strap but keep it connected for now.

·         Extend your boat’s motor to the down position if applicable.

Back the Trailer into the Water

·         Gently back your trailer into the water, using the following guidelines:

·         Approach the ramp slowly and steadily.

·         Keep the trailer as straight as possible.

·         Use your vehicle’s side mirrors to gauge your alignment with the ramp.

·         Be aware of your surroundings and any other boaters or vehicles.

Submerged the Trailer

Continue backing up until the boat’s wheels are partially submerged, and the boat begins to float. Depending on the boat’s design, this may require different levels of submersion.

Release the Boat

·         Once the boat is floating, carefully release the boat from the trailer. Follow these steps:

·         Disconnect the boat’s bow strap completely.

·         Ensure the boat is properly secured to the trailer with a winch hook or strap.

·         Slowly pull the boat forward off the trailer using the winch or strap.

·         Keep the boat’s engine in neutral or park if it’s a powerboat.

·         Steer the boat away from the trailer.

Secure the Boat

After launching, secure your boat in the water:

·         Anchor your boat or tie it to a dock if necessary.

·         Double-check that your boat is properly floating and not resting on the trailer.

·         Ensure the boat’s drain plug is closed to prevent water from entering.

Remove the Trailer

Once your boat is safely in the water, remove the trailer from the boat ramp:

·         Pull the trailer out of the water, ensuring it’s clear of the ramp.

·         Secure the trailer with the parking brake or chocks.

·         Prepare the trailer for towing by attaching safety chains, verifying the hitch connection, and ensuring all lights are functional.

Retrieve Your Boat

When you’re ready to retrieve your boat from the water, reverse the process:

·         Back your trailer into the water, aligning it with the boat.

·         Carefully guide the boat onto the trailer.

·         Winch or pull the boat onto the trailer, ensuring it’s centred and secure.

·         Reconnect the bow strap.

·         Pull the boat and trailer out of the water, ensuring they are clear of the ramp.

·         Secure the boat and trailer for towing.