Owning a boat is an excellent investment, and as an avid boater, there are a few things that you need to learn about towing your boat. Whether you’re thinking about transporting your boat for a short distance or trying to move it across the state for your summer vacation, you’ve come to the right place. Keep on reading to learn more about the best way to pull your boat.
Can I Pull My Boat With the Cover on It?
Yes, you can. However, there are a few things that you need to do to make sure that both the boat and the cover aren’t damaged during the towing process. Towing your boat is a matter of adequate preparation, and doing it correctly will guarantee that your boat will always be in perfect shape.
Is It Legal To Pull My Boat With the Cover On?
There is no specific law that states that you can’t pull a boat with the cover on. The most important thing is to make sure that the cover is correctly secured, so it doesn’t fly in the way of another vehicle or cause a hazard on the road. As long as you’re driving safely, it will be perfectly legal to tow your boat with the cover on.
What Are the Benefits of Pulling a Boat With the Cover On?
As a boater, you want to make sure that your investment is safe and that your boat is always ready for the upcoming adventure. You can definitely tow or pull your boat without putting the cover on. While this might be the easiest option, pulling the boat with the cover on actually has several benefits.
In most cases keeping the cover on doesn’t make a difference when you’re towing your boat for a short distance. Here are some reasons why you should keep it on when you’re pulling the boat for a long distance.
- When you’re traveling for a long distance, the cover will protect your boat from the elements, bugs, debris, and other particles that can damage the interior and exterior.
- A secured cover will help improve the aerodynamics of your boat. This means that towing will be easier and more efficient with regards to gas mileage.
- You can use the boat for storing luggage and other gear, as long as you keep the cover on.
- If you’re not planning to use your boat right away, the cover will help protect it and keep it clean until it’s needed.
What Are the Types of Boat Covers?
There are three different types of boat covers that you can choose from when you’re planning to pull or tow your boat.
Custom Covers
A custom cover will fit your boat perfectly and won’t move, even if you’re pulling your boat for a long distance at high speed. However, custom covers are usually more expensive because you will have one specifically made to fit your boat.
Semi-Custom Covers
Semi-custom covers are offered for the type of boat you have but can be easily adjusted for a snug fit.
In most cases, the cover can be adjusted in 1-foot increments to guarantee that it won’t move while you’re pulling your boat. However, it won’t be as tight as a custom cover.
Universal Covers
These covers are the most affordable because they’re designed to fit a large variety of different boats of various sizes.
Universal covers can also be adjusted in 2 or 4 feet increments, but they won’t be as snug or as tight as custom or semi-custom covers. A universal cover is a budget-friendly option, but it doesn’t provide the required protection, especially if you’re towing your boat for a long distance.
Tips for Pulling Your Boat Safely
Following these tips will guarantee that you can tow your boat successfully, and it will arrive safely at the desired destination.
- Make sure that the cover is the right size for the boat. If it’s too big, it might slip and fly towards another vehicle, which can be extremely dangerous.
- Always secure the boat with plenty of tie-down straps to make sure that it won’t move while you’re driving your trailer.
- Secure the cover to the boat and to the trailer itself for maximum safety.
- Make sure that the trailer you’re using can handle the weight of your boat. Don’t exceed the trailer’s weight limit as this can damage it, destroy your boat, and cause serious accidents.
- Always calculate the weight of the people, luggage, or any extra gear that you plan to add to the towing vehicle.
- Secure any additional gear that you choose to load while towing your boat. This will prevent the load and weight from shifting while you’re driving for a long distance.
- Distribute the extra weight evenly for a comfortable towing experience.
- Check the tire pressure and make sure that they’re adequately inflated before you start towing your boat. Replace old tires before you start driving.
- Check the lights and brakes before your journey begins. You don’t want to travel with bad lights or brakes as this might lead to serious accidents.
- Adjust the mirrors to provide the best view while you’re towing your boat. If possible, install special towing mirrors that provide a wide view, so you can avoid accidents.
- Don’t exceed the maximum speed while towing your boat. As a matter of fact, you need to travel slowly while towing a boat to make sure that you’re in total control of your vehicle and the extra weight you’re pulling.
- Examine the vehicle at every possible stop. This will help you identify and deal with any potential problems.
Wrap Up
You can pull your boat with the cover on, as long you’re following the right safety rules. There are several types of boat covers that you can choose from, but you must make sure that your boat cover fits perfectly.
A cover that is too big might fly and obstruct the view of another driver who is driving in the same or opposite direction. You should also examine the trailer and ensure that you’re following all the safety rules until you and your boat reach the desired destination.