Trailering a Boat-Launching at the Boat Ramp.

Trailering and Launching Your Boat

This page provides information on trailering and launching your boat safely. Step by step pictures help give new boaters some tips on unloading a boat at the ramp. This procedure applies to roller type trailers. Boats on float-on trailers and some other type trailers are launched somewhat differently.

Before backing down the ramp, the boat should be prepped to unload in the staging area. This is done to make the launching safe and efficient, allowing other boaters to use the ramp as soon as the boat is clear.

Before approaching the ramp:

put the drain plug in!
remove all straps
get wheel chocks ready
disconnect the trailer lights
attach bow and stern lines
verify that the winch cable is secure so it wont pay out cable until you are ready
install electronics and any items that you need to operate the boat
make a quick check of the engine, fuel and electrical systems
show guests the location of safety equipment
make a final check of the drain plug!

Now you are ready to back the boat trailer down the ramp. Verify that your turn to use the ramp is next and that no boaters are waiting to load behind you. Have someone stay in the truck at all times if at all possible. When the tow vehicle is in position it's a good idea to set the parking brake and have the driver hold their foot on the vehicle's brakes while the boat is unloading.

Here the boat has been backed down until the rear roller or pad is touching the water.

Another shot of the boat ready to unload.

The cable has been loosened at the winch but not removed. The bow line can be controlled by a helper or run in front of the winch post and used to help slow the boat's travel.

The boat pivots on the trailer and much of the trailer tongue weight is off the truck. In some cases the trailer is actually lifting the truck. Good wheel chocks and a driver in place are important at this point as there may not be enough weight on the rear wheels to hold the tow vehicle in place with the parking brake only.

Here the boat has successfully launched and sits behind the trailer. The winch cable can be removed and the boat can be moved back with the bow and stern lines.

When returning the boat to the trailer it is a good idea to have a few things ready when you approach the ramp.

have lines ready

begin storing loose items

have the tow vehicle keys ready

raise the engine or drive if needed

explain the procedure to guests and assign each person a responsibility

After loading the boat back on the trailer:

remove the drain plug

install the straps

stow all wheel chocks

reconnect the trailer lights

secure bow and stern lines

verify that the winch cable is secure and safety chains are on

disconnect the battery switch

remove electronics and any items that you need to store off the boat

lower antennas and outriggers

make a quick check of the boat engine, drive, tires, lights, hitch, safety chains

More boating information is on the Boating Resources Page

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