Mastering The Art Of Dry Launching Your Boat

Launching a boat can be a tricky process, but it can be done alone or with a partner. Before launching, it is important to prepare the boat, including the engine, fuel, safety gear, and mooring lines. When launching, it is crucial to be mindful of others waiting to use the ramp and to have a plan. One method for launching a boat involves aligning the boat and trailer and slowly reversing down the ramp until the boat starts to float. Then, put the vehicle in park, set the parking brake, and release the trailer winch and safety chain. With a bow line, give the boat a gentle push, and it should slide off the trailer.

Prepare the boat

Preparing the boat is a crucial step in the dry-launch process. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure a smooth and safe launch:

Firstly, it is important to prepare the boat while it is still on the trailer and on dry land. This includes readying the engine, checking the fuel, and gathering safety gear such as life jackets, as well as mooring lines and fenders. Ensure that the drain plug is inserted to prevent the boat from capsizing. It is also a good idea to have a checklist to ensure nothing is missed.

If you are launching a larger yacht, it is beneficial to remove weight from the extremities of the boat and place it centrally to induce a slight heel towards any wall or piles you will be drying out against. Use fenders horizontally, and consider using car tyres, foam pads, or a fender board to better spread the load.

If you are launching a smaller boat, ensure that you have a bow line ready to secure the boat once it is in the water. You may also need to attach dock lines to the bow and stern cleats.

It is also important to be considerate of other boaters waiting to launch. Ensure that you are prepared to drive the boat off the trailer as soon as it is in the water, and try to keep the launch process quick and efficient.

Finally, if you are launching alone, you may want to attach a line to both the bow and stern cleats before backing down the ramp. This will allow you to control the boat more easily once it is in the water.

Find a suitable location

Finding a suitable location to dry launch your boat is crucial for a successful and safe experience. Here are some detailed guidelines on what to consider when selecting the right spot:

Firstly, purpose-built scrubbing platforms are highly recommended. These specialised areas are designed to support your boat during the dry-docking process and can be found in almanacs and pilot guides. They typically feature piles or a quay wall to ensure the stability of your vessel.

When selecting a location, consider the type of surface available. Concrete pads are ideal as they provide a solid and stable foundation for your boat. They can withstand the weight of your vessel and offer a level surface to work on. Alternatively, you can also use firm sand and gravel or horizontal sleepers for support.

Before choosing a location, it's essential to consider several critical metrics. Firstly, check the tonnage capacity of the maintenance piles. Ensure that the piles can accommodate the weight of your boat. Secondly, consider the length and breadth of your boat. Make sure the platform or grid is long and wide enough to accommodate the keel of your vessel, especially if it's a beamy boat.

Another crucial factor is the distance between the piles. Ensure that the spacing is appropriate so that you don't fall between them. Additionally, consider the drying height. Calculate when your boat will ground and re-float, and determine when there will be dry ground beneath it.

If the pads are composed of multiple concrete plinths or railway sleepers, note the distance between them. This will impact the stability of your boat during the dry-docking process.

As an example, consider the case of Warsash on the Hamble. It offers concrete pads on both the upstream and downstream sides, with a maximum tonnage of 20 tonnes and a maximum length of 15 metres. This information can help you calculate the suitability of a location for your boat's dimensions and weight.

Before committing to a location, it's advisable to inspect the area at low tide. This will help you identify any potential issues, such as an uneven surface or debris. Take the time to remove any debris, such as sand or gravel, to ensure a smooth and level surface for dry docking.

In summary, finding a suitable location for dry launching your boat involves considering purpose-built scrubbing platforms, surface types, critical metrics like tonnage and length, and inspecting the area at low tide. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and successful dry launch for your vessel.

Back the trailer down the ramp

Before you back the trailer down the ramp, take some time in the staging area to load all the gear into the boat, attach lines to the bow and stern cleat, check that the plug is in, and put the key in the ignition. If you have a winch, you should also unhook the safety chain at the top of the ramp.

When backing down the ramp, be sure to do so slowly and carefully. Use your side mirror to watch for signals from your crew that the boat is ready to float free of the trailer. If you can't tell when the stern is floating, have a crew member on the dock to signal when to stop.

It's important to keep the trailer straight as you back down the ramp. Try resting your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel, so that whichever direction you move your hand, the trailer will turn in that direction.

Once the stern of the boat is floating, put the vehicle in park and engage the parking brake, but leave the engine running. Now you can detach the bow strap and any other attachments, and gently push the boat off the trailer. If you've backed down far enough, this should be relatively easy, and the boat should float off gently.

Crank the engine

Cranking the engine is the final step in the boat launching process. Once you have reversed the trailer to the optimum depth, hop into the boat and crank the engine. It is important to keep the engine tilted down as you do this.

If you are having trouble starting the engine, there are a few things you can try. Firstly, check that the boat is in neutral. Most boats must be in neutral for the engine to start. Secondly, check that the boat's safety features are disengaged. Modern boats have safety features such as a safety lanyard or ignition interrupt switch that must be connected for the boat to start. If these safety features are engaged, the engine may crank but not fire. Thirdly, check the boat's battery. If the engine cranks slowly or doesn't crank at all, the battery may be dead or low. Use a voltmeter to check the battery's voltage. If the voltmeter reads below 12 volts, the battery is likely the issue. You may need to jump-start or replace the battery.

If none of these solutions work, there are a few other potential issues. The starter solenoid may be the problem if you hear a clicking sound or a low whine when you turn the key. Before consulting a mechanic, try tapping the starter motor lightly with a hammer. This may knock the internal connections back into place, allowing them to make better contact. If the engine still won't crank, you may need to consult a professional mechanic to identify and fix the issue.

Secure the boat to the dock

To dry launch a boat, you'll need to secure the boat to the dock to prevent it from tipping or falling sideways. Here are some detailed steps to ensure your boat is securely fastened:

Firstly, identify a suitable location for dry docking. Look for purpose-built scrubbing platforms, concrete pads, firm sand, gravel, or horizontal sleepers. These surfaces provide stable foundations to support the weight of your vessel. Before committing to a location, inspect the area at low tide to ensure there are no hidden obstacles or debris that could damage the boat's keel.

Once you've selected the ideal spot, carefully position your boat equally between the pilings. Ensure the keel is aligned with the concrete or sleepers. Use fenders horizontally or, even better, use car tyres, foam pads, or fender boards to provide better load distribution and protect the boat from potential damage.

The next step is to secure the boat with lines to prevent it from falling outwards. These lines should be snug and well-led, and you may want to lead them to the outside cleats to encourage the boat to heel against the wall or pilings. It's also important to have these lines on a winch so that they can be adjusted under load. Consider taking an additional line around the mast or using a halyard attached to a bollard or kedge anchor for extra security.

Take your time to get the lines and fendering right, and ensure you have allowed plenty of time for this process before taking the boat out of the water. A smooth wall is generally easier to secure your boat to than individual pilings.

Finally, before you exit the boat, make sure you have a plan for disembarking. Have a dinghy, ladder, or a pair of wellies ready. The slipway can be muddy, so consider bringing a bucket of water to rinse off muddy boots or a pair of slip-on shoes to change into once you're back on deck.

Frequently asked questions