Towing a boat
At different times of year, many boat owners will be towing their vessels back to, or from, the coast to make sure that essential repairs and maintenance are carried out.
As people take to the road with their boats, many are not taking all of the necessary precautions to ensure that they are driving safely and within the limits of the law.
If you are towing your boat or other trailer at any time, it is important to remember that it is a condition of your insurance policy that your trailer is kept in a roadworthy condition, and that you may face prosecution if your trailer is found to be unsafe or illegal.
James Roberts, head of Zurich’s pleasurecraft and marine arm, Navigators & General, comments: "We all need to adopt extra precautions to ensure our safety and that of other drivers on the roads. When we have extra loads or other things to think about, it's even more important to plan in advance and make sure that all the necessary measures have been taken to ensure a safe journey. Boat owners invest a considerable amount of money in their hobby and it's in their interests to protect that investment. We hope that this guide will help them to transport their vessel to and from the coast without incident and ensure that they are ready for the coming sailing season."
Before you set out
Always keep an eye on the condition of your trailer, especially if it regularly comes into contact with salt water. Always check that the:
- Brakes and cables are not seized or kinked
- Tyres are in good condition – including the spare
- Lighting board and connections are in full working order
- Breakaway cable is in good condition
- Jockey wheel works and can be safely secured
The towing vehicle
- Make sure your vehicle is powerful and heavy enough for the boat you are towing – the total trailed weight should not exceed 85% of the towing vehicle’s kerb weight
- Make sure you can see round your boat – fit mirror extensions if you need
- Make sure the tow ball is lightly oiled
- Check the lights before you leave
- Test your brakes to make sure they are working properly
Loading your boat
- When securing your boat onto the trailer, it is very important to get the weight distribution right; getting this wrong often leads to problems on the road
- Make sure your boat is properly strapped down to anchor points
- Check for loose items on the deck or cockpit
On the journey
- Stop and carry out a brief check on the load a few miles into your journey in case straps need tightening
- Remember your speed limit: 50mph on single lane roads and 60mph on dual carriageways – excessive speed causes snaking
- If you start snaking, keep calm, hold the wheel firmly and gently slow down. Try to avoid braking or accelerating
- Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for your journey so you don’t have to rush
After use
- Hose the trailer off each time you use it
- Lubricate moving parts
