Boat launch with trailer - Safe and independent

A boat launch with trailer doesn't have to be a stressful time. Whether you're driving up the ramp for the first time or trailer yourself more often with the right preparation and techniques, you'll maintain control and prevent damage to your boat trailer or car. In this blog you'll learn how to safely efficiently and more confidently get your boat in the water, even if you're alone. If you want to know exactly what to check beforehand and how best to get your boat in the water read on and find out for yourself.

The blog in brief:

• Step by step launching your boat from preparation to guidance
• Prevent common mistakes with checklist and tips
• Practical examples by type of user from fisherman to sailing enthusiast

Why use a trailer ramp?

A trailer ramp is designed to get your boat safely into the water without muddy banks or unexpected depths. The ramp often has a firm surface with sufficient grip which prevents the trailer from slipping. Moreover, the angle is tailored to roll a boat off a standard boat trailer. Scattered throughout the Netherlands you can find hundreds of slopes with facilities such as jetties, parking spaces and sometimes even auxiliary rails.

What should you prepare before driving up the slope?

Proper preparation prevents damage and unnecessary delays during trailering. Check that the boat trailer is securely attached to the hitch including locking and working lights. Have mooring ropes ready and check that the drain plug is in the boat and attach a line to the bow. Make sure the boat is properly centered and tightly secured to the trailer with webbing straps

How do you position the trailer at the ramp?

When reversing toward the water, overview is most important. Use mirrors or a reversing camera to drive straight and maintain control. Drive slowly until the rollers of the trailer are just under water usually this is enough to release the boat. Stop the car and use the handbrake and possibly wheel chocks to prevent movement.

How to let the boat slide into the water in a controlled manner

Do not unhook the boat until the trailer is properly positioned and partially in the water. Use a hand winch or electric winch to slowly guide the boat off the trailer. Have someone hold or tie the bowline so the boat does not drift as soon as it is released. Then gently steer the boat to a dock or safe berth to make room for others

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Without preparation, mistakes quickly lurk that can cause unpleasant or even dangerous situations. With attention and calm, most mistakes are easy to avoid. The mistakes below are the ones we see happen most often to novice trailerers. Keep these points firmly in mind while leaning:

• Not using a handbrake that allows the trailer to roll back
• Loosening straps too early causing the boat to suddenly come loose
• Driving too far down the slope causing the car to lose grip or get wet
• No bowline ready causing the boat to drift uncontrollably

Practical tips tailored to your situation

The way you launch your boat depends greatly on your experience, your boat type and your physical capabilities. This way you avoid stress and choose a method that really suits you. If you recognize yourself in any of these descriptions, follow these tips:

• If you have children on board work with visual markings on the trailer and provide clear routines
• If you use a fishing boat consider an electric winch so you can act alone with minimal effort
• If you're sailing an older boat, choose slopes with flat runs and use a running line to guide the boat

Pre-departure checklist so you don't forget anything

Preparation starts at home and prevents wasted time or unsafe situations at the ramp. This checklist will help you not overlook anything and hit the road with peace of mind. Print it out or save it in your phone so you can always check that you have everything ready:

• Check hitch lock and working lights on boat trailer
• Fasten straps tightly and make sure the boat is stable
• Install drain plug and lay out land fenders and bowline
• Check the operation of the hand winch or electric winch
• Watch the slope from a distance pay attention to steep ground and any obstacles

Boat launch with trailer a safe and repeatable routine?

Launching a boat with trailer quickly becomes a familiar routine if you take a step-by-step approach. Good preparation, proper positioning and controlled guidance are the basis for a safe experience. By avoiding common mistakes and applying practical tips, you'll sail away relaxed.

At Vaarzeker, we can help you with trailering if it's not quite right yet. Check out our subscriptions for when you need help with technical questions or towing the boat, for example. Do you have other questions? Then feel free to contact on with our team. We will be happy to help you.