Five Need to Know Facts Before Boat Towing

Knowing the ins and outs of towing a boat are essential for keeping you and others safe and not breaking any laws. Depending on a boat’s weight and beam, vessels of up to 30ft in length and three tonnes displacement can be towed with your own personal vehicle. Here are a few handy tips:

1. If you passed your driving test after 1997 (Category B) you are restricted on what you can tow. Ensure you are aware of the maximum authorised mass (MAM) restrictions for your license category.

2. When towing speed limits are also restricted. Single carriageways are reduced to 50mph and dual-carriageways are reduced to 60 mph, you are also not allowed in the fast lane.

3. Ensuring you conduct proper boat trailer maintenance to remain within requirements is also something to remember. After submersion for boat launch and recovery, the trailer should be washed with fresh water to help prevent corrosion.

4. Trailers with a MAM of less than 750kg do not need to be fitted with brakes.

5. A trailer load may project 305mm on either side as long as the total width does not exceed 2.9m and may overhang the rear of the trailer by up to 3.05m.