Finding The Perfect Spot: Boat Launcher Location Tips

Launching a boat can be a frustrating and sometimes dangerous operation, often requiring multiple people. However, there are now several products on the market that can assist with solo boat launches, such as Dock-It Launcher, Beachlauncher, and Launch Assist. These products are designed to make launching and docking a boat safer and easier, and some even offer the convenience of self-docking. They are also versatile, working with a range of boats, from fishing boats to pleasure boats, and are compatible with boats of varying sizes.

Dock-it Launcher kit for solo-launching

The Dock-It Launcher kit is a newly patented kit designed for solo-launching, with components that also make partner-launching and docking faster and easier. The kit is suitable for fishing boats, pleasure boats, deck boats, pontoons, and tritoons.

The Dock-It Launcher kit includes a "How to" tutorial to help you get the most out of the product. This includes learning how to measure to determine the correct size kit for your boat, how to use the components for solo-launching, and how to use the components for partner-launching, docking, and mooring applications.

The Dock-It Launcher website provides detailed measuring instructions to ensure you select the correct kit size. It is important to measure the distance between the middle of the front cleat and the middle of the rear cleat and then refer to the sizing chart. If you have multiple forward connection points, such as a cleat and a rail, the website recommends using the option that falls in the "Best" zone on the measurement chart.

The Dock-It Launcher kit offers a range of benefits for boat owners. It allows you to quickly launch your boat without assistance and even watch your boat "self-dock" as you drive away. The kit's components enable you to secure your boat to almost any dock, and its shock-absorbing capabilities help protect your boat from wind-generated waves and wakes made by other boats.

In addition to solo-launching and docking, the Dock-It Launcher kit has multiple other uses. You can use the components to secure equipment in your boat while trailering, as a clothesline for hanging wet gear, and for various "non-boating" purposes. The kit also includes devices that can be used for shock-absorbing anchoring, attaching drift socks, and quick and simple boat tie-ups.

The Dock-It Launcher kit has received positive testimonials from professional fishermen and customers who have found it invaluable for solo-launching, convenient, and a great investment.

Launch Assist for launching boats 17' and above

Launch Assist is a US-patented product designed to make launching your boat safer and easier. Launching a boat can be frustrating and dangerous, often requiring multiple people to get the job done. But with Launch Assist, you can launch your boat safely and effortlessly by yourself.

Launch Assist is a multi-purpose marine product designed to aid the boater in the launching process. It is a hybrid rope and strap line with a built-in shock absorber designed to tether the boat to the trailer. The launch cord has two stainless steel 316 forged spring hooks (one on each end). The strap end is the harness for the polyurethane shock absorber, while the rope end is designed to be tied to a mooring cleat on the dock after the boat is launched.

To launch a boat using Launch Assist, simply attach the hook on the rope end to a secure place on your trailer. Then attach the strap end hook to the bow mooring cleat on your boat or the bow eye-bolt. Leave the excess rope in the launch container and ensure that your winch strap is disconnected before launching your boat. After the boat is launched, you can detach the rope end from the trailer and tie the bow to the dock mooring cleat.

In addition to aiding in the launching process, Launch Assist can also be used as a bow or stern line with its built-in shock absorber, and it can help protect the hull of your boat by reducing or eliminating the friction from the trailer bunks. It is made in the USA from high-quality, durable components and is available in two sizes: Standard (for boats 17' and above) and Mini (for boats 16' and below).

Beachlauncher for watercrafts with 3,000 - 10,000 lb capacity

Beachlauncher offers a solution for launching watercraft with a capacity of 3,000–10,000 lb. The Beachlauncher PWC-H, for instance, can hold two full-size personal watercraft with a combined weight of up to 3,000 lb. This remote-controlled, any-terrain device can launch and load personal watercraft in any climate and terrain. It is equipped with a strong 26.6hp Kohler engine and can travel into 4'6'' of water. The KART-TECT wireless remote control offers a range of up to 600 feet, allowing for launches into shallow water.

The Beachlauncher Superlauncher has a capacity of 3,000–12,000 lb and can accommodate boat lengths of 12 to 32 feet. It is suitable for launching large pontoons, bow riders, wakeboard boats, and surf boats. The Superlauncher features three sets of rubber tracks on a powder-coated frame and is operated by a wireless Quantum remote control. It offers a maximum incline of 25% on hard surfaces, 15% on soft sand, and 20% on gravel hard-packed surfaces.

In addition to their standard models, Beachlauncher also offers custom Beachlaunchers for various watercraft, including pontoons, seaplanes, and submarines. These custom launchers can be tailored to specific needs and requirements. Beachlauncher is designed for a variety of shorelines, including inland lakes, rivers, ocean bays, and sounds, and can manoeuvre through sand, silt, cobblestones, and rocky debris.

Beachlaunchers are known for their reliability and low maintenance, requiring only annual oil and filter changes to maintain peak performance. The company provides worldwide on-site technical training for all Beachlauncher models upon request and is committed to addressing customer needs through its dedicated service team.

Stay Dry Boat Launcher for boats ranging from 12 to 20 feet

The Bentley Outdoors Stay Dry Boat Launcher is a must-have for boating enthusiasts with vessels ranging from 12 to 20 feet in length. This innovative product simplifies the boat launching process, making it safe and seamless for single handlers. With its unique design, you can stay dry and secure every time you set sail.

The Stay Dry Boat Launcher features an easy 4-step deployment process: position, hook, secure, and launch. This intuitive system allows for a smooth transition from dock to water, ensuring a hassle-free boating experience. Its compatibility with a wide range of boat sizes makes it a versatile choice for any enthusiast.

One of the standout features of the Stay Dry Boat Launcher is its unique Stop Adaptation capability. This feature gently halts your boat's movement, preventing any impact with the dock and enhancing overall safety. This not only protects your boat but also provides added peace of mind during the launching process.

The product is proudly made in the USA, supporting local craftsmanship and jobs. With the Stay Dry Boat Launcher, you can focus on enjoying your boating adventures while staying safe and dry. It's a testament to American ingenuity, providing a practical solution for boating enthusiasts nationwide.

To learn more about the Stay Dry Boat Launcher, you can visit online retailers or streaming platforms like YouTube, where users have shared their experiences and provided insights into this innovative product.

Docking and Anchoring Equipment for boats

Docking, mooring, and anchoring are three methods of parking your boat in the water. Each method requires different equipment to secure the boat in place.

Docking Equipment

Docking a boat involves aligning the boat next to a dock and securing it with dock lines. To prevent damage to the boat, plastic or rubber fenders should be hung on the sides of the boat to act as a cushion between the ship and the dock. When choosing dock lines, it is recommended to use nylon ropes, which are strong and resistant to wind and currents. The length of the rope should be at least 2/3 of the boat's total length.

Mooring Equipment

Mooring involves tying a boat to a mooring buoy, jetty, quay, pier, or dock. This method requires sturdy hooks to secure the boat to an object fixed in the water. Mooring buoys are typically set in place by government or other organizations.

Anchoring Equipment

Anchoring is the most widely known way of parking a boat and involves dropping a heavy object attached to the ship, known as an anchor, into the water. The anchor lands on the seabed and prevents the boat from drifting. Anchoring in deep water is not recommended due to the increased stress on the anchor chain, which may break under strong water currents. When choosing an anchor, consider the size and weight suitable for your boat and the depth of the water you will be boating in.

Additional Equipment

Other equipment to consider when docking, mooring, or anchoring your boat includes:

• Boat hooks
• Fender covers
• Platforms and gangways
• Boarding ladders
• Mooring/anchoring springs
• Rope covers
• Buoys

Frequently asked questions