Solo Launching Advice Needed

[jtmarten]

I used to launch/retreive my CVX-18 and 23' daycruiser jet solo all the time. Low profile, not too heavy for me to sling around in the water, could easily board the bow from the trailer tongue because of the low deck height.

For the last 2 seasons, my 17yr old son has been able to drive off/float on the trailer, which has been super nice.
Now, it looks like I'll usually be solo since he is generally hanging out with his buddies on weekends, and will soon be working.
I'm concerned about launching the 26' Nova II solo, as it is much larger, and about 2500lb heavier, than the daycruiser was. Can't easily board the bow since the deck is as high as my Suburban roof. (I'm considering downsizing to a 21-23' low-profile open bow.)

I'm thinking my best bet is getting a longer, maybe 30', dock line for the stern, tie it to the winch post while backing in. Once she's free of the trailer I can get on the dock and the stern won't drift out.
Basically the same thing for the bow while docking, use a 30' dock line attached to the bow cleat that I can have in-hand while securing the stern to the dock.
I'm giving it a shot this weekend, any advice would be helpful!

 

[EddiePetty]

Re: Solo Launching Advice Needed

Though our V-20 isn't as long nor heavy as your ride, I have a similar problem.

The XO and I usually boat alone, however, it seems about every time I go to launch or retrieve she disappears...down the beach, next finger pier over or wherever she goes!!

I use a long dock line to a stern cleat run up to the bow and a similar line to the bow cleat.
The stern line is looped over a pier cleat at least a boat length behind the trailer. as I release the winch strap I can position the boat off/on the trailer just by playing the lines. On days of little wind I forego the stern line (trailer has tall guide-ons and self-centering aft and mid rollers.)

 

[jmarty10]

Re: Solo Launching Advice Needed

I think you got it for unloading. That will work great. For loading back the trailer all the way in so the bunks are submerged and gently.......gently drive the boat up until it hits the bow stop. Shut her down, lean over the bow, hook your strap and start cranking until its tight. Once its tight go back to vehicle and pull up a little to see if youre on straight and snug her up more. I think with your size boat and weight this is a good way of doing it.

 

[jtmarten]

Re: Solo Launching Advice Needed

Thanks!
I think to make loading easier, I'll get a BoatBuddy. Had one for the daycruiser and loved it, just float/slowly power onto the trailer and snap - she's hooked. Once I get out I can hook the winch line and cinch it down.

 

[emoney]

Re: Solo Launching Advice Needed

I think you've got it figured out already. Just go slow, let the boat's momentum work in your favor and don't try to work against it. I'm always "solo-ing", because even if my wife's there, she's not much help, lol. I've learned, thanks to my big old heavy sailboat, that the key is to plan ahead, be prepared and take your time. The BoatBuddy you'll love for putting her up.