Launching And Loading A Boat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Launching and loading a boat is a crucial skill for any boat owner to master. It can be a challenging process, especially for beginners, but with practice, it becomes manageable. The process can be broken down into three parts: staging, launching, and making space for others. Before launching, it is important to check that the drain plug is installed and the key is in the ignition. All gear and equipment should be loaded into the boat, and fenders and dock lines should be attached. When launching, reverse slowly down the ramp and stop when the stern of the boat starts to float. Secure the boat, release the trailer winch, and use bow lines to guide the boat into the water. Finally, move your boat away from the ramp and secure it to the dock to make space for other boaters.

Check the drain plug is installed

Checking that the drain plug is installed is one of the most important steps when launching a boat. A boat drain plug is a device inserted into a hole in the bottom of a boat to allow water to flow out and prevent the boat from filling up with water and sinking.

Before launching your boat, it is crucial to check that the drain plug is installed. This simple step can save you from the embarrassment and danger of a sinking boat. It is easy to forget in the excitement and anxiety of launching, especially at a crowded ramp. It is a good idea to keep several extra plugs handy, in the boat, on a tackle box, or in a ski gear bag. That way, if you do forget and flooding begins, you can quickly screw in a plug and bail.

The drain plug is usually located in the transom or the bilge of the boat. It is important to identify the location of the drain plug on your boat and ensure it is easily accessible for installation and removal. Some boats have a plastic or nylon plug, while others have a brass or bronze screw-in type. It is also beneficial to check the size of the hole and select a plug that fits snugly to create a tight seal.

In addition to checking the drain plug, other key steps in launching a boat include loading your gear, attaching fenders and dock lines, and positioning your vehicle and trailer to back straight down the ramp.

Prepare your vehicle and trailer

Before you set off, you need to ensure you have the right equipment. Pick a trailer that can hold your boat based on its length and weight, and that can safely tow and launch it. Once you have the right equipment, you can attach the boat trailer to your vehicle. Here is a step-by-step checklist:

• Balance: Ensure the trailer is properly balanced and level.
• Position the vehicle: Move the vehicle so that the hitch ball is directly below the trailer’s coupler, then lower the trailer.
• Fasten the trailer: Securely fasten the tongue coupler and lock the trailer latch using a cotter pin or lock.
• Fasten the boat to the trailer: Using tie-down straps, securely fasten the boat to the trailer.
• Attach the safety chain: Attach the winch cable and winch safety chain to the bow eye of the boat.
• Check the chain: Ensure the trailer’s safety chains are securely fastened to the hitch. The chains should be long enough to accommodate tight turns but short enough that the trailer cannot touch the road if it becomes dislodged from the hitch.
• Check your lights: Fasten the trailer’s lighting harness to your vehicle and check the lights.

Now you are ready to tow your boat to the ramp.

It is also important to practice driving and reversing with your boat attached in an open area, so you are not practising at the boat launch.

Load your equipment

Loading your equipment is an important step in the boat launching process. It is good etiquette to load your boat before you get to the ramp, to avoid blocking the dock for other boaters.

Firstly, make sure you have all the gear you need for your trip. This could include fishing tackle, coolers, tubes, and skis, food, recreation equipment, and boating accessories. It is also important to remember safety equipment, such as personal floatation devices, and a fully charged battery.

Secondly, load all your equipment into the boat. This is best done before you arrive at the ramp, but if this is not possible, make sure you do it efficiently, to avoid holding up other boaters.

Finally, check that you have the right equipment for the job. Ensure your trailer can hold your boat, based on the length and weight of the vessel, and that you can tow and launch it safely.

Attach dock lines and fenders

Dock lines and fenders are essential for protecting your boat from damage when docking. Fenders, also known as "boat bumpers", act as a cushion between your boat and a dock, jetty, or another boat. Dock lines, on the other hand, are used to secure your boat to the dock and prevent it from moving too much.

Choosing the Right Fender:

• Select a fender size that is appropriate for your boat's size and type. Smaller boats generally require fenders with less length and diameter, while larger boats need bigger fenders to provide adequate protection.
• Consider the placement of your fenders. They should be placed along the widest part of the hull, as this will likely be the first point of contact when docking. Make adjustments depending on the docking situation. For example, if you're only docking your bow, focus your fenders there.
• Determine the right number of fenders. Typically, two to four fenders per side should be sufficient for most boats. You may also want an extra "roving fender" that can be placed wherever needed at the last minute.

Tying a Fender to Your Boat:

• Choose the right knot for securing your fender. The "bowline" knot is strong and creates a loop that can be easily passed through the eye of the fender.
• When tying the fender line to your boat, consider using the "clove hitch" knot, especially if you plan to tie it to a cleat or a guard railing. This knot is easy to adjust and remove, even under significant tension or in saltwater conditions.

Attaching Dock Lines:

• Use dock lines to secure your boat to the dock cleats. The best way to tie a dock line to a dock cleat is with a "cleat hitch". Bring the line around the side of the cleat furthest from the part of the boat it is attached to (bow or stern).
• Ensure that your cleat hitch is not too tight. While it should hold the boat in place, it should also be easy to untie by hand.
• Utilise breast lines and spring lines for additional stability. Breast lines are attached at the bow and stern on both sides of the boat, limiting side-to-side movement. Spring lines are essential to prevent forward and backward movement, especially in high winds.

By following these steps, you will effectively attach your dock lines and fenders, ensuring the safety of your boat and the boats around you.

Reverse down the ramp

Reversing down the ramp is a critical step in launching a boat. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you reverse down the ramp safely and efficiently:

Preparation:

Before you start reversing, there are a few important things to do. Firstly, walk down the boat ramp to inspect its condition, especially where it enters the water. Look out for any hazards such as drop-offs, potholes, sharp objects, or slippery algae. Also, check the water depth and flow over the ramp. If possible, watch a few boats being launched to get a better idea of the conditions. Prepare your boat away from the ramp by loading all your gear, checking the fuel and battery, and ensuring all safety equipment and straps are in place.

Reversing Technique:

Now, it's time to reverse your vehicle and trailer down the ramp. Put your vehicle into four-wheel drive mode and take it slow. Keep your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and use your mirrors as your primary reference for manoeuvring. Move your hand in the direction you want the trailer to go. For example, if you want the trailer to go left, move your hand to the left. Make small corrections early on to keep the trailer centred in your mirrors. Always reverse in a straight line if possible, and take it slow—it's better to stop and reposition than to rush and make mistakes.

Getting Assistance:

If possible, get an assistant to guide you. They should stand where you can see them in one of your mirrors and use agreed-upon hand signals to direct you. Their clear view of the back of the boat can help prevent accidents.

Stopping at the Right Time:

Continue reversing until the stern of the boat starts to float. Be careful not to reverse too far down the ramp as you may get stuck. Stop when the boat is in the water and starting to achieve buoyancy. Engage the parking brake and put your vehicle in park.

Final Steps:

Now, you can walk over to your boat, detach it from the trailer, and give it a gentle push into the water. Once your boat is secured in the water, move your vehicle to a designated parking area to free up the ramp for the next person.

Remember to take your time and follow these steps to ensure a safe and successful launch of your boat.

Frequently asked questions