boat launch and retrieval

[mnewb1]

Novice question

I am considering a 22 foot Hydra Sport which I would store at home and trailer. I can see getting home after work and taking the boat to a launch. Is it insane to consider trying to launch and retrieve a boat of this size by myself, or is this commonly done?


Thanks

 

[Greendiver]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

While I don't by myself (There are ALWAYS others that want to go! ) I easily could. There will be others who will comment that will routinely do solo launch and retrievals.
I sure wouldn't go solo until your sure everything functions flawlessly and that the boat and trailer play nice together!
Whatever you choose, have fun!

 

[can-amsledder]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

Nope, not insane at all. As long as you are launching where there is little traffic so you have a little more time without being in some ones way and somewhere without much current.
I don?t think you have much to worry about, as soon as you get a boat you?ll have lots of friends that want to go with you! lol
Just make sure you get good at launching and retrieval before going it alone.

 

[5150abf]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

The first time might be a little scary but it can be done without problem, I see people solo boats like that all the time.

As Can Am said, maybe take someone with you the first time just in case btu I woud do it in a heart beat.

I have a 16' fishing boat i alunch by myself all the time, can't be that much different.

 

[Bob's Garage]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

Most new boaters start smaller so as to build confidence and experience.

The problem is not if someone can launch a 22' boat alone (I used to launch a 26' Wellcraft Coastal alone) it is whether a new boater with limited skills and understanding of the complexities of launching, should be doing it.

Launching can be quite traumatic for the launcher when things begin going wrong. Panic can set in, or embarrassment, which will cause the launcher to make some possibly serious errors.

In a very short time the new boater can become disillusioned with the whole concept of boating as a result of these bad experiences.

I would strongly suggest:

1. Starting with a smaller boat, or
2. Implore one of your experienced boating friends to accompaning you for the 1st few trips to gain experience, or/and
3. Learn/teach a family member to assist you in the launch, AND
4. Take a Safe Boating Course to better familiarize you with the complexities of boating.

At the very least go to the ramps during the week when it is least busy so as not to add additional pressure to your learning experience by having to deal with irate fellow launchers.

A busy Saturday is NOT the time to learn.

 

[erie_guy]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

Depends - - Take a trip down to your proposed launch site and observe other boaters for a few hours for a few days. You will see a range of capabilities, techniques, boat sizes, and learn how the ramp and dock assist or hinder the trailer boaters. Perhaps another ramp nearby has better physical charactoristics and would be easier to use.

Unless there is some rush to get the boat, I suggest you see if you have a fit with what others are doing in your proposed boating area. I have seen a 24' cruiser easily launched and retrieved by a single man with the proper trailer and truck. Your skills will improve with experience and you may want an even larger boat, different trailer, or tow vehicle after a few years.

Don't be shy to ask for assistance if you are unsure - most boaters are more than willing to lend a hand and offer their experience is helping you. I single-hand with a 32' cruiser but it is in a wet dock and all I have to do is tie it loose and go. Returning to dock is a bigger problem if there are weather issues.

Have a great boating summer.

erie_guy
Port Clinton, OH

 

[mpsyamaha]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

i launch and retrieve my 21 ft boat on couple different ramps by myself on a regular basis. i just get the lines and fenders all ready before i back the boat down the ramp, oh and I make sure the battery switch is on and the plug is in. It takes less than 5 mins to get on my way. Like these other guys said, it might be a good idea to watch some other people launch at the ramp you are going to use. Also, trying it by yourself for the first few times will be better if the ramp is not busy so that you dont feel rushed.

 

[mnewb1]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

Thanks for the excellent advise everybody.

 

[Bucks45]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

I launch/retrieve a 23' Searay by myself all the time (wife helps as much as she can). I had a small boat several years ago, but I'm basically a newbie. Just take your time, be safe, and considerate. Go to your ramp when it's dead and practice. It's nerve racking at times, but if you use common sense you'll be fine. Good luck.

 

[bcons]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

Trailer guides are a MUST, then you should be ok. I have a 24' I do all the time. Do go check the ramps you intend on using, avoid shallow & gentle slope ramps. MUCH more difficult to get on & off. The one thing you need 2 people for is the "bump & dump". Bigger boats on gentller slopped ramps often need to be backed in, unhook cable or strap, then 1 in the truck, one on the dock. Backup 4-8' and stomp on the brake to jerk the boat a bit to get it off. Deeper ramps and most of the time you can float of drive the boat off by yourself.
Pay attention to current and wind direction. Cross wind or current can make for a difficult time.

 

[JimJam]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

There are a few boat launching/retrieval instructional videos on YouTube including this one:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkXRDkrNX0o
You can use them to formulate a solo-launching plan/checklist.

 

[JimJam]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

There is an interesting thread at the BOC forum on solo launching:
http://baylinerownersclub.org/forum/showthread.php?t=48371

 

[ilmostro99]

Re: boat launch and retrieval

I think the key here is YOUR comfort zone. I have a 19', and although my wife "helps", It is basically a solo launch and retrieval nearly every time. 20'+ isn't a problem if you are comfortable doing it. Don't be afraid to get a little wet, either. Put on your shorts, get in waist deep, and walk it in the last few feet. You'll learn quite a bit about how your boat likes to go on the trailer, and what it doesn't like, and it is easier when you are also in the water rather than hopping along the trailer trying to keep your balance to stay dry and fighting a boat onto the trailer. Like others have said, find an open dock - preferably midweek - and take your time and practice it until you are comfortable. Before you know it, you'll find that it is just about as easy doing it solo as it is with help.
Hope this helps, and have fun,
Erik
'99 Sea Ray 190BR

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: boat launch and retrieval

consider a power winch and rollers if you are handling it alone a lot. And don't be afraid to ask for a hand.
Ithnkfully don't have to deal with the crowded public ramps like a lot of you do. But it seems a lot of people are sitting there with their thumb up their butt complaining when they could be helping others, both with the boats and with the traffic, that could move things along.