How To Launch Your Boat

Launching your boat will become a simple task with a little practice. If possible, select a quiet weekday morning for your first launch. The same basic principles apply to launching any size boat, whether you are launching a smaller sport boat like the See Doo challenger or a larger sport cruiser like the Sea Ray Sundancer.

The first rule when launching a boat is being prepared before you pull onto the launching ramp. That means having all your gear safely stowed, the boat key in the ignition, the boat drain plug in, the tie-down straps off, the trailer lights disconnected and a safety line connected to the boat’s bow. It can be very frustrating watching someone loading fishing or picnic gear into their boat or apply sunscreen to their kids while their boat is parked on the launch ramp!

Keep the trailer’s winch strap and safety chain connected until you reach the water’s edge. It will only take a few seconds to disconnect them prior to launching. Back the boat down the launch ramp and stop before the stern of the boat hangs over the water. Unlock the winch strap and remove pins or other devices used to prevent the outboard motor from tipping down. Now back the boat down until the trailer wheels are submerged. When the boat is ready to float off the trailer, have your boating buddy hold the bowline or tie the line to your vehicle or winch handle.

Once the boat has floated free of the trailer either beach the boat or tie it off to the dock with the bowline. A confident boater will have someone start the motor and move the boat away from the dock until the driver has parked the vehicle and is ready to board. Either way, try to launch quickly as a courtesy to your fellow boaters.

The same rules apply when putting your boat back onto the trailer, but there are a few hazards you should be aware of, especially if you’re tired or feeling rushed. When you tie up at the dock, have your vehicle keys in your pocket, retrieve your vehicle and claim a spot in line. Before you pull your boat out of the water ensure the engine has been tilted up.

Many launching problems will be avoided by making sure everything on your boat is in working order before you leave home!