If you are a lover of water, an inflatable boat is something you will enjoy using to navigate waterways. This boat can be used for kayaking and, in some cases, fishing in calm waters. Inflatable boats are of different types, but they all serve the same purpose. To help people launch themselves into water.
But before you can use the boat in the first place, you need to know how to launch it. We explain in this article how to launch an inflatable boat and other essential considerations to bear in mind before, during, and after you’ve launched the boat.
The best spot to launch an inflatable boat
Many boaters who are serious about launching their inflatables focus more on the how without giving a quick on the where.
Before you launch a boat, you need to think of the best spot. If you launch it in the best place possible, your adventure for the day will be made easier.
Note that the kind of boat will determine how it is launched. If it is a large non-inflatable boat, you will have to move it from your location to the bank of the river or water body using a truck. This task requires some skill; otherwise, your move may end in disaster with the boat falling into the water, especially if you are on a ramp. Or, in worse cases, your vehicle may fall into the water.
So before you launch it, think of the best places to do so and plan ahead. We recommend shorelines or beachheads because the ground in these parts is flat and truck-safe.
On the other hand, if your boat is small and lightweight, you can launch it from any spot, including uneven ground. Smaller and lighter inflatables have a portable build which makes them easier to launch.
How to launch an inflatable boat safely?
In this section, we want to show you how to launch an inflatable boat safely. The main factor that will influence how you launch the boat is the type of boat in question. Is your boat a rigid or a floor boat? The launch methods are different for both. Let’s have a look at the methods.
Floor Inflatable Boats
Floor inflatable boats are small versions that are mostly lightweight and can carry 1 or up to 4 people at once. To launch this boat is relatively easy. You just pick the spot you wish to use as a launch base, then move the boat close to the waterline.
If the ground is conducive, you may inflate the boat close to the water so you will not use much effort transporting it to water. But to do this, make sure the ground is not covered with sharp objects or uneven as this may puncture the boat.
Also, make sure that the launch spot has water that is deep enough to accommodate the boat’s weight, so the bottom doesn’t graze hard earth. After inflating the boat, just lift it and place it on the water. If the ground is flat, you may not have to do much lifting; just slide it into the water.
For larger and heavier floor inflatable boats, you will need help to launch them. Above all, ensure that the water isn’t shallow and the spot is devoid of sharp rocks and stones.
Rigid Inflatable boats
Then we have rigid inflatable boats, which are a lot different from floor inflatable boats. This boat type uses trolls and not just paddles. That is why boaters prefer them for long-distance trips and fishing. However, due to their average build and size, they are much heavier. But how do you launch this type of boat? There are basically two ways to do it.
Use a truck
You can use a truck to launch it. Just move the truck in reverse mode towards the water but be careful about it. Then disengage the boat
Launch wheels
If your truck cannot move close to water or you don’t have a truck, you can use a launch wheel. Placing the boat on the wheels and moving it close to water is another good idea.
From a boat ramp
If you don’t have a truck or wheels, another way to do it is to use a boat ramp. But to do this, you may need help if yours is very heavy and large.
If you are launching from a boat ramp
- Use a spotter to see backward
- Unhook all safety chains and lines before launching
- Keep your truck straight for best placement
Things to consider when planning a boat launch
When planning a boat launch, there are more than a few things to consider to arrive at the best outcome. We review some of them.
Use a flotation device
It is always advisable to use a flotation device approved by the coast guard in your area. This safety device can be quite helpful in a volatile situation. We advise against going on a voyage without one.
Size matters
The size and weight of your boat matter when choosing a launch site. While smaller and lighter boats can be launched anywhere, larger and heavier ones require a ramp and deep waters. If the water in the launch site is shallow, the boat may get stuck or, in worse case scenarios, may puncture.
Registration may be required
Before you start taking your boat out for fishing or sightseeing, find out if you need to register it. Depending on the regulations in your area, you may be required to register it.
While the authorities may not require registrations for smaller boats, they may demand registration for larger vessels. So do your due diligence before you start using yours to avoid violations.
Check for permits
Boat launching off ramps may need a permit in your area, so we advise that you check. If you use the boat for fishing, you may need a fishing license. Yet again, do your findings to avoid violations.
Tow capacity
If you are going to use a truck or trailer to launch your inflatable boat into the water, you will most likely use the exact vehicle to transport it to the site. To be on the safe side, make sure the vehicle is strong enough to pull the boat. You also want to make sure that the tires are suitable for sandy areas, so you end up with a stuck vehicle.
Truck considerations
Your boat is not the only thing you should worry about; you should also worry about the transport truck as well. Unless you are boating on a fresh lake, you should be mindful of salinity. Saltwater causes metal rust more than anything else.
So make it a practice to washer your truck at the end of the day to prevent rust. Washing it with fresh water will remove salt deposits from the body.
Also, make sure that the truck has a sizable deck to carry the boat. Most conventional trucks have sizable decks.
Launch wheels considerations
While you can use a launch wheel, you can’t afford to use just any launch wheel but one that is suited for your boat. When purchasing a launch wheel make sure you buy specialty wheels for inflatable boats. As long as it is strong enough to carry the boat’s weight, you have nothing to worry about.
If your boat has a motor, you have to factor in the extra weight as well. So make sure your wheels can handle this excess weight. Wheels are typically installed to a boat’s transom for easy moving from dry land to water. For softer ground, you need larger wheels. Before you decide that a wheel is right for your boat, make sure
- You check the weight capacity to be sure that it can accommodate your wheels
- You read the user manual on how it is used
- The wheel suits the type of ground you will frequent (soft wheels are great for hard ground and large wheels for soft ground)
Preparing for an easy inflatable boat launch
Launching an inflatable boat doesn’t have to be a tough task nor does it have to take time. Having a boat launch plan is one sure way to avoid headaches. You want the process to be as straightforward as possible, so here are things you should do.
- Make sure you raise the motor
- Inspect the ramp to slopeness
- Inspect the water level (deep or shallow)
- Install the fuel line in the motor if your boat uses one
- Load up all tools into the boat before you enter the ramp, not after
- Guide the boat into the water carefully
There are still more things to consider, but these are some important ones. First, practice reverse driving and be skilled at it before you attempt to move your boat closer to water off a ramp. If you have a partner to guide you as you do your parking, that will be better.
After disengaging the boat from your truck, make sure you park it far away from the ramp to create space for other trucks which might want to use the ramp as well. And more importantly, ensure that you back the truck slowly into the water to avoid a disastrous launch.
In this article, we have explained how to launch an inflatable boat by lifting, using a truck or wheels. The launch mode you adopt should depend on the size of your boat and the weight. For larger boats, you will need larger wheels that can carry the weight. Finally, make sure you take your time and do not rush the process. Safety should rank above everything wake when launching your boat.
How to launch an inflatable boat FAQ
1. What type of wheels do I need for soft ground?
The best wheel for the soft ground is a large wheel. This is because the wheels may likely sink due to the boat’s weight if it is a small one. Larger wheels are better. But for harder grounds, smaller wheels will suffice.
2. Do I put my equipment in the boat before or after getting to the ramp?
It is advisable to put your equipment into that boat before approaching the ramp. Spending too much time on the ramp will delay other boaters who may want to use it.
3. Do I need a truck to launch my Inflatable boat?
No, you don’t unless the boat is heavy.
Last updated: 27/03/2022
