Problems loading boat

[searl1]

Ok, here's the problem. I'm relatively new to boating. Got my boat this year (22' Robalo dual console. Once my boat is on the bunks, I have no problem powering up and winching. The problem is getting it onto the bunks. Yesterday, I was trying to load on the center ramp of 3. I had a quartering wind from the rear that continuously made me drift into the other ramps. I finally got it on with the help of other boaters. No one else seemed to be having a problem. Is this just inexperience? Whew! VERY frustrating! Any suggestions?

 

[southkogs]

Re: Problems loading boat

It sounds like you may have any one of three issues going - or perhaps all three together:

First, you may not be controlling your power and steerage just right - or more simply stated, your aim is a little off. That's an issue of practice: learning to apply power, gauge the wind and drift, etc.

Second, you might be putting your trailer in too deep. I try and get the trailer in where I can feel the keel bump the center roller about mid-way up the trailer. By that point the bunks are controlling the rest of the hull (mine is a tri-hull so it'll work a little different than your V).

Finally, you may want some guides on the back of the trailer helping you to see where things are and giving you a good "catch" for the lateral drift. This the first trailer that I've ever had them on (short ones) and they're incredibly helpful.

I'm thinking it's mostly and issue of practice and proficiency. Hang in a little while longer and don't give up.

 

[Al Kungel]

Re: Problems loading boat

Every boat and location is different. I would say it may be a combination of things, inexperience and the trailer is to deep in the water. Most people that have problems getting the boat on straight tend to put the trailer to deep.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Problems loading boat

It sounds like you may have any one of three issues going - or perhaps all three together:

First, you may not be controlling your power and steerage just right - or more simply stated, your aim is a little off. That's an issue of practice: learning to apply power, gauge the wind and drift, etc.

Second, you might be putting your trailer in too deep. I try and get the trailer in where I can feel the keel bump the center roller about mid-way up the trailer. By that point the bunks are controlling the rest of the hull (mine is a tri-hull so it'll work a little different than your V).

Finally, you may want some guides on the back of the trailer helping you to see where things are and giving you a good "catch" for the lateral drift. This the first trailer that I've ever had them on (short ones) and they're incredibly helpful.

I'm thinking it's mostly and issue of practice and proficiency. Hang in a little while longer and don't give up.

+1 on this. Remember practice makes perfect as well.