There’s nothing quite like spending a full day out on Minnesota’s beautiful lakes. But before you can take advantage of the summer fun, you have to launch your boat. And on busy lake days, the boat launch can get more than a little hectic. That’s why understanding and respecting basic boat launch etiquette is one of the most important things you can do when you’re boating.
At Canvasworks in Cokato, we love boating season as much as the next folks. That’s why we’re sharing our top boat launch etiquette tips to help you make your next launch go as smoothly as possible.
Check out this guide and then give us a call for all of your boat upholstery and boat canopy needs.
Don’t use the boat ramp for anything other than launching your boat.
Using the boat ramp for anything other than launching your boat is considered extremely rude in the boating world. That’s because the line to use a boat ramp can become pretty crowded.
There’s no surer way to irritate your fellow boaters than using the boat ramp areas to load your gear into your boat. Instead, take the time to make sure you’re ready to go before you get to the boat ramp by loading all your gear in the parking lot. Ideally, you should be able to load your passengers using a courtesy dock near the boat ramp. If this isn’t the case, make sure your passengers are ready to load quickly so you can move out of the way for the boater.
Don’t socialize on the boat ramp.
When you’re meeting up with friends and family for a fun day on the lake, sometimes the first thing you want to do when you see each other is catch up. But resist the urge to do so until you’ve successfully launched so you’re not holding up everyone else who is waiting to use the ramp.
Have an experienced driver back in your boat and vehicle.
An inexperienced driver backing into the boat ramp can be dangerous to other people and vehicles as well as to your boat. Don’t use a crowded boat ramp as a learning experience.
If you need to practice backing up with a boat in tow, you should use an empty parking lot to work on your technique. If you’re still not perfectly comfortable backing into the launch ramp, have a more experienced driver help you out. If you prefer to practice on the real thing, save it for slow days so you aren’t backing up the line on the ramp.
Get your tow vehicle moved ASAP after launching.
Again, time is of the essence when you’re taking up space on the boat ramp. Once you’ve put your boat in the water and disconnected, you want to get your tow vehicle out of there as soon as possible. Move it out of the way and into a parking spot quickly so someone else can take your place.
Get Your Custom Boat Canopy and More
When you need quality marine products like custom boat upholstery, boat canopies, and Bimini tops, we’ve got you covered at Canvasworks in Cokato.
To check out our craftsmanship, stop by our online gallery, Then give us a call at 320-559-0165 or contact us online to connect with our team.