Sailing Beginner- Trailer Sailor

In a previous sailing beginner article, I covered the basic sailing terms of a sailing boat. Learning how to sail is not all that difficult once you understand nautical terms and sailing techniques. But first things first, and unless of course your sailboat is already docked or moored on the water, you can’t go sailing until your sailboat is in the water. To get there you must trailer it to the water. That is why I myself a Trailer Sailor!

However, before towing your sailboat it would be wise on your part to ensure that the boat trailer is in good mechanical condition including that the lights are operational, the tires are in good shape including the proper air pressure, the trailer hitch is in good working order to name a few. And of course to make sure that you have legally registered your sailboat and trailer.
 

Starting with the boat winch, the nylon strap or rope should be checked for dry rot first’ especially if it’s old and has not been replaced. Next make sure that a safety chain is used to secure the bow of the sailboat in addition to the winch strap while it’s on the trailer just in case the winch strap breaks.

Sailing Tip: It may be a good idea to check the state boating laws in your state to make sure that you have met all the legal requirements while transporting your sailing boat. The stern or back of the sailboat should be secured by using a ratcheting nylon strap or a sturdy rope to hold it in place to prevent any incidental damage to your sailboat or worse yet to keep it from falling off the trailer. I prefer a ratcheting strap over a rope because it’s much faster to use. 
 

Now that the sailboat is secured to the trailer, it’s good idea to make one last check to make sure that the lights are connected, the safety chains are secured, and the hitch is secured to the tow vehicle. This final quick check will give you a piece of mind while towing the sailing boat. Another good piece of advice is to keep and eye on both the boat and trailer while driving, because unexpected things can happen at any time. 
 

Sailing Tip: It’s a good idea to carry a spare tire for your boat trailer just in case you get a flat. This way you can change a flat and not have to leave your sailing boat on the roadside while you fetch a spare. Also be sure to have enough life jackets on board for everyone on the sailing boat. I also have a fire extinquisher as well just in case my outboard catches on fire. Speaking of outboards, I check the fuel level and if it needs any I prefer to refuel it before I leave. This way it’s much easier to pour gasoline in the tank when the sailboat is not moving around in the water. In my next article, I will be discussing how to launch the sailing boat safely.

Ps- I hope you are enjoying my sailing beginner blog, however, if you’re really pressed for time, I have also put together an audio and e book for a nominal price, so that you can learn how to sail while commuting to work or anytime you can listen to your favorite audio playing device. So now there is no excuse for you to daydream any longer about sailing! Get started today, you will be glad you did. Just click this link: www.sailingbeginner.com for more information in getting your hands on a copy of my audio and e book. Until then- Happy Sailing!