If you're new to boating, towing the boat is often the part people feel most nervous about - and that's completely normal!
I can't tell you how many customers have told me they're excited about the boat but a little intimidated by the idea of towing it, backing down the ramp, or launching for the first time. The good news is that most people pick it up much faster than they expect.
Like anything in boating, confidence comes with practice. A little preparation before you leave the driveway goes a long way toward making your day on the water stress-free.
Here are the biggest things I encourage boat owners to think about before towing their boat.
Before anything else, make sure your vehicle is properly matched to your boat and trailer.
One thing I always remind customers is that the advertised boat weight usually isn't the weight you're actually towing down the road.
You also need to account for:
By the time you're packed for a summer weekend, that weight can add up quickly.
If you're ever unsure whether your vehicle is properly equipped, don't feel like you have to figure it out alone. One of the benefits of purchasing from a dealership is having a team you can lean on long after the sale. Your salesperson, service advisor, or the boat manufacturer can help!
A properly set up trailer makes towing noticeably easier and safer.
Before leaving home, make sure:
A properly balanced trailer should also have tongue weight equal to roughly 10–15% of the total trailer weight.
Too little tongue weight can create trailer sway, while too much can overload the rear of your vehicle.
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This is something I do every single time, even if I've towed that trailer a hundred times.
A quick walkaround only takes a few minutes and can prevent major headaches later.
It sounds simple, but it's amazing how often a quick inspection catches something before it becomes a problem.
>> Download Our Trailering Checklist
One of the easiest ways to make friends at the boat launch is to prepare your boat before backing down the ramp.
That way, when it's your turn at the ramp, you're ready to go.
One common mistake I see is backing the trailer too far into the water. Most trailers only need to be submerged enough for the boat to float off comfortably. The same applies when loading the boat back onto the trailer at the end of the day.
If you're new to launching, don't be afraid to take your time. Every experienced boater was once the person figuring it out for the first time. Most people are happy to offer a hand if you need one.
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Towing simply requires a little more patience than everyday driving.
I always recommend:
If you're driving through mountain passes or steep grades, use lower gears and engine braking when possible instead of riding the brakes all the way downhill.
The boat isn't the only thing that needs maintenance.
Your trailer should be inspected regularly for:
Freshwater trailers generally require less maintenance than saltwater trailers, but they still deserve attention.
The best thing you can do is create a routine and follow it every time.
The boaters who seem the most comfortable at the launch ramp aren't necessarily the most experienced. They're usually the ones who have developed a system and stick to it.
Take your time. Double-check everything. Don't let yourself feel rushed.
Boating is supposed to be fun, and a little preparation before you leave home helps ensure the rest of the day stays that way.