Trailer-sailing depends on finding a good launch ramp.
Issue 145: July/Aug 2022
One advantage of owning a trailerable boat is being able to explore distant and unfamiliar waters on a tight timeline and budget. But a simple question can deter even the most adventurous gunkholer, whether sailing, motoring, or paddling: Where do I launch my boat?
This ActiveCaptain overview of the Davis Island boat ramp near Tampa, Florida, shows nearby ramps on the accompanying map. Using feedback from users, the app provides up-to-date information about ramps.
Doing your homework to find the answer can mean the difference between a successful voyage and an epic fail. Here are some questions I ask right off the bat when sussing out a potential launch spot for my O’Day 192: Is overnight parking allowed, and for how many days? What are the fees to launch and park? How safe is it to park overnight? How many vehicles with trailers can park, and is there an overflow lot? Since my boat has a mast, I want to know if there are overhead obstructions such as trees or power lines between the parking area and open water, as well as in or near the launch staging area. Is there dock space? Is the ramp steep enough and long enough for boats with deep draft?
It may take a little digging to answer these questions. Information can be spotty, but following are some good sources; it’s always better to pick ramps found in multiple sources, if possible.
ActiveCaptain (activecaptain.garmin.com or search the App Store or Play Store for “ActiveCaptain”): Garmin bought ActiveCaptain a few years ago, but the website is still free and doesn’t require a Garmin device. Many boat ramp reviews list fees and usage restrictions, as well as boat sizes and parking spaces.
Google Maps (maps.google.com): A search on “boat ramps” near your sailing destination will usually result in an extensive list; reviews can be helpful but require
using the “Search Reviews” feature to find relevant ones. Use satellite mode to check for overhead obstructions, parking, ramp size, and docks. Besides public boat ramps, consider commercial marinas—many will allow you to launch and park for a fee, and they may be more secure.
The Venetian Gardens boat ramp in Leesburg, Florida. Note the tree on one side of the ramp, something sailors will want to be well aware of when launching a boat with a mast.
Boating clubs and bait shops: Local knowledge is always best. Search boating clubs or bait shops using Google Maps, then a quick email or phone call can get you started. Keep your questions brief, then ask for more details if you find someone helpful.
Forums: There are many boating forums that discuss ramps, or you can post a question to find local knowledge. Try a web search on “boater forums,” or add your region name into the search to find a local one. I’ve found trawlerforum.com to be an active and helpful forum.
Once you’ve located a potential ramp, use nautical charts, tables, or apps to verify water depths and tides. Then employ some basic strategies to make your life easier. Try to avoid peak launch times and, if you must launch on a weekend, arrive early to beat the rush. Identify a backup ramp in case your first choice is unsuitable or the parking lot is already jammed. Don’t leave valuables in your car; cover anything with a blanket that might attract an unsavory eye.
Finally, if you find a good ramp (or a bad one), post a review on ActiveCaptain or Google Maps. Answer all the questions you would have asked, and help future boaters have a successful trip.
Ken Van Camp has been sailing along the Eastern Seaboard of the U.S. since before he could walk. His boats have plied the waters of Long Island Sound, the Chesapeake Bay, Tampa Bay, and several lakes in Pennsylvania and north-central Florida. He can be reached at ken@vancamp.info.
Thank you to Sailrite Enterprises, Inc., for providing free access to back issues of Good Old Boat through intellectual property rights. Sailrite.com
