Launching your boat is the start of every adventure on the water. Though it should be a purely exciting time, many boaters stress over the experience. What if your vessel slides off the trailer or lift too soon, what if it gets scratched, or what if things go so wrong that it sinks? These are unlikely outcomes, but they are possibilities if you don’t approach boat launching with care and preparation.
That’s what we’re here to help with. Below is the ultimate guide to a smooth boat launching experience. Read on to learn how to get your vessel into the water (and out) safely every single time.
Find a Good Launch Site
If you’re new to boat launching, there are a few qualities you might want to prioritize in a ramp. For one, research local launches that have ramps with moderate inclines. A ramp that’s too steep can make your launching experience more stressful, whereas a ramp that’s too gentle will make it hard for your boat to roll off into the water.
You’ll also want to check if the ramp has a dock. This structure makes the process easier by giving you something stable to tie your launched vessel to before you set sail. It also makes boarding your boat much simpler.
Additionally, make sure the ramp isn’t too slimy and slippery where it meets the water. Some algae is inevitable, but too much buildup could make you (or worse, your car) slip into the water.
Finally, try to visit the launch when it won’t be super busy. If you’re new to boat launching, then having a line of boaters behind you will only add to your stress. Make sure you won’t feel rushed by getting to the launch outside of peak hours.
Check Your Trailer and Boat Before Launching
The launching process technically starts before you even arrive at the ramp. It begins at home or in the marina parking lot as you’re waiting for your turn to launch.
First, conduct a thorough pre-launch inspection of your boat and trailer. Check your trailer hitch, ensure all straps and tie-downs are secure, and verify that your drain plug is properly installed. Make sure that your battery is charged and your engine is in good working condition. Additionally, check your fuel levels and top off if necessary. It’s much easier to fuel up at a gas station than to deal with marine fuel docks, which can be crowded and expensive.
If everything looks good at this point, you can proceed to load all your gear into the boat while it’s still on the trailer. This includes coolers, fishing equipment, safety gear, and any personal items. Organize everything so it’s secure and won’t slide around during the launch. Finally, if you’re already at the marina, you can remove any tie-down straps that secure the boat to the trailer. Just leave the winch line attached until you’re ready to launch.
How To Execute the Perfect Launch
When it’s your turn to launch, back your trailer up so that it’s aligned with the ramp. It helps to use straight reference lines (such as the edge of the dock or ramp) to guide you. Once you’re in position, back your trailer down the ramp slowly and steadily.
Now, at what point do you detach your boat? If you have a roller trailer, get your vessel into the water before disconnecting the winch. Otherwise, your boat will slip off the rollers and slam into the ramp, putting a swift end to your day on the water. Conversely, if you have a bunk trailer, then you can disconnect the winch right before you submerge the trailer. The bunk design won’t let your boat slide off until it buoys up after entering the water. It’s at this point that you also want to secure your boat to an anchor point using a dock line, so it doesn’t drift away without you in it.
Once your boat is floating (and the winch is detached), gently work the boat fully off the trailer by driving your car or truck forward. The boat should slide off easily if you’ve positioned the trailer correctly. If the boat seems stuck, don’t force it. Instead, back the trailer down a bit more until the boat floats free.
Boat Launching Mistakes You Should Avoid
Many launching problems stem from simple mistakes that are easily avoided with proper knowledge and preparation.
Forgetting the Drain Plug
One of the most frequent and devastating errors is forgetting to install the drain plug. This mistake could result in a flooded, submerged boat, so make absolutely sure that the plug is in and tightly sealed!
Backing Up Too Much
Another common mistake is backing the trailer too far into the water. This can make it difficult to retrieve the trailer and potentially flood the trailer bearings. You only need to go deep enough to float the boat.
Hurrying the Launch
Don’t rush the process, even when the ramp is busy. Take your time to position everything correctly. Even if this makes other boaters wait five minutes longer for you, it’s far better than the traffic you’ll cause with a failed launch.
Not Anchoring Your Boat
Some boaters forget to anchor their vessel to their dock, trailer, or truck, letting it drift away once it starts floating. As we mentioned, make sure the line is attached and secure before your vessel hits the water.
How To Retrieve Your Boat From the Water
Use these tips to safely retrieve your vessel:
- Position your trailer in the water at the same depth you used for launching.
- Drive the boat onto the trailer, or use a boat hook to position it correctly.
- Once the boat is in position, you can attach and use the winch to pull it onto the trailer.
- After the boat is secured on the trailer, pull forward to clear the ramp area before conducting your post-launch procedures.
Making Your Launching and Boating Experience Smoother
With this ultimate guide, you’re all set for a smooth boat launching experience! Remember that practice makes perfect; you won’t get everything exactly right the first time. Just make sure you avoid the most dangerous mistakes so you don’t lose your truck, trailer, or boat. Everything else is fixable, and you’ll eventually get a feel for the perfect process.
Moreover, you want your time on the water to go seamlessly the entire time, not just during the launch and retrieval. But as every boater knows, it’s not always smooth sailing. After a day out on the water, your spine might feel the effects of your vessel’s constant humming, rocking, and pitching. Smooth Moves is here to help with that! Our Smooth Moves Ultra is a boat seat suspension system that absorbs shock from your boat’s movement and engine vibrations. The result is a happier, more comfortable you who is ready to tackle every sailing challenge, from tricky launches to turbulent waters. Read more about our innovative seat suspension on our website, and reach out if you have any questions!
