Boat Launch Etiquette Dos and Don'ts

The boat ramp is a busy place. There are boaters waiting to back their tow vehicle down the ramp, boaters securing or releasing their boats to/from the trailer, boaters standing by on the water waiting to load, and lots of other people, kids and dogs around so it’s important to manage your activities there safely and with respect for others.

Here’s what to do and what not to do when launching your boat for a successful outing.

Do

1. Prepare your vehicle, trailer and boat in the staging area. The drain plug should be in, the boat uncovered, and all gear should be onboard before you enter the ramp.

2. Wait your turn. Busy weekends can be crowded so que up and respect others in line.

3. Once launched or loaded, clear the ramp quickly to make room for others.

4. Park your vehicle and trailer in the designated area and out of the way when storing them for the day or weekend.

5. Slow down when boating near the ramp to minimize your wake.

6. Lend a hand, but only after asking. If you see someone who needs help at the ramp, ask them if they’d like assistance.

Don’t

1. Don’t back down the ramp with the boat unprepared and don’t load people or gear once on the ramp or you can expect the wrath of others who are waiting.

2. Don’t block in others with your truck or trailer when parking for staging or for storage.

3. Don’t power load by using your boat’s engine to get up onto the trailer. It’s destructive to the ramp and may be illegal in the area.

4. Don’t socialize while you’re tying up the ramp. Pull the vehicle and boat off to the side and clear the path for others.

5. Don’t clean and dry the boat while on the ramp. Save it for the parking lot.

6. Don’t blast loud music or yell while at or around the ramp. Find a way to communicate with your boat driver on the water or the person guiding you down the ramp in a quiet and civil manner.

The next time you’re at the launch ramp with your Boston Whaler boat, remember these tips and you’ll not only look like a pro, you’ll get the job done while meeting expectations and making new friends at the same time.

Boat launch etiquette is important not only to get your Boston Whaler launched and loaded safely, but also to help you gain respect and maybe even win friends in the process. If you’re unfamiliar with boating etiquette, remember that it’s a set of expectations and rules for good manners and savvy seamanship.

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This is for general information purposes only. Your use or reliance on any of the information in this Blog is solely at your own risk. Under no circumstance will we have any liability for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of any of the information provided.

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