Launching: How to launch your boat from the trailer when you're alone?

 

Launching a boat, whether it's a rigid hull or a rigid inflatable, is a step that requires some practice to be done alone. Here's how I launch my rigid inflatable when I'm alone at the boat ramp.

Going out alone, if your boat is not moored at the dock but stored on its trailer, means launching it without assistance. While this step might discourage some, it is perfectly feasible on suitable slipways.

Choosing the right wedge

Obviously, launching your boat alone isn't possible at every slipway. Ideally, you'll need a wide, easily accessible slipway with mooring rings along the quay and a trailer parking area not too far away. For example, the slipway at the Moulin Blanc port in Brest offers the possibility of doing this on your own.

The step-by-step launch

• Load your boat with all the necessary equipment
  . Your boat will remain unattended for a while, the length of which will depend on the distance from the parking area. To avoid attracting theft, remember not to install your electronic devices or leave your fishing gear in place.
• Back your trailer into the water until the tires are submerged below the rim. Depending on the slope of the slipway, this measurement may not be accurate. I emphasize the importance of properly adjusting the trailer. If it's well-adjusted or has a snug fit, you won't need to submerge the wheels. For those with a submersible trailer, this precaution is unnecessary.

There is no need to completely submerge the wheels of the trailer.

• Unwind the strap until the boat is afloat.

Launching of a Zeppelin 21 VPRO.

• Keep the bow between the last two rollers of the trailer. This will stabilize the boat and prevent it from pivoting to one side or the other.

With its nose wedged between the last two rollers, the boat will not move.

• Unclip the boat from the strap and get on board.

You have the option of rolling the trailer onto a roller to prevent the strap from falling off when you take it out of the water.

• Once on board, proceed along the quay to moor the boat to a ring.

For hard hulls, it is best to add fenders between the dock and the ship.

• The final step is to collect your vehicle and park in the designated parking area if one exists.

Your boat will remain unattended while you go to park, hence the advantage of having a parking lot not too far away.