Five Important Things to Remember About Boat Towing

Safe and legal boat towing in the UK is a very important aspect of being a boat owner. Keeping yourself and others safe is very important. The first thing you need to know is if your boat can even be towed by a personal vehicle, as it depends on the boat’s weight and beam. Vessels of up to 30ft in length and up to three tonnes displacement are the limits.

Boat Towing Facts to Remember:

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 overhand the rear of the trailer by up to 3.05m.