Malibu Boats
Become a boat ramp pro with some tips starting with Ramp Etiquette to the steps for a successful launch.
Ramp Etiquette
These are unwritten rules developed to keep things moving smoothly. When you arrive at the ramp, first find the staging area to prep your boat for launch. Launching as efficiently as possible will be appreciated by other boaters. If it’s your first time launching, practice on a less crowded day so you can take your time.
Prepping the Boat
This is ideally when you get the boat as prepared as possible before hitting the ramp. Put the plugs in, remove the transom straps, turn the batteries on, load up your gear, and attach your bow and stern dock lines to the boat’s cleats. This is also the time to find your fenders and have them ready.
Deploying the Bimini
Deploy the Bimini to provide shade for your crew and sun protection for boat.
Backing into the Water
Having a driver in the boat is a good idea so you’re ready to go once backed in the water.
When you’re reversing, remember that everything is backwards with a trailer. Here’s a trick that will help: Put your hand on the bottom of the steering wheel and whatever direction that hand goes is the direction the trailer will go. Watch your mirrors and take it slow. Roll down your windows and turn off your radio so you can hear your spotters in case you need to stop for any reason. A trailer with a depth alarm will let you know when you're at the right depth with a high-pitch noise you can hear in the tow vehicle. Put the vehicle in park and set the emergency brake.
The Truth to Boating: How To Launch Your Boat Video. Watch now below.
The Truth to Boating: How To Launch Your Boat
Unhooking the Boat
Unhook the emergency chain first (if equipped). Carefully pull the winch a short distance in the only direction it will move and flip the winch’s direction-selector switch to make it reverse directions. Hold onto the handle and carefully let the boat out until you can disengage the hook on the bow eye. Keep a tight grip so the handle doesn’t slip out of your hand. The boat should be free now so you can either guide it with lines to the dock or start the engine and have your driver pull away. If you’re launching solo you can hop in the boat and bring it to a sandy beach or dock, then go get the tow vehicle and trailer.
Pulling the Truck and Trailer Out
Release the parking brake with the vehicle in park and your foot on the brake. Put the vehicle in drive and take it slow going out of the water so you have less chance of spinning the tires on a slick or steep ramp. Park with plenty of room to get out and you’re ready for a great day on the water.
*This document is meant as a guide. Always check state and local regulations as well as U.S./Canadian Coast Guard regulations for specific boating rules and regulations. Areas and conditions can be unique so it’s best to check ahead of time.