Whether you’re tucking your boat away for the winter or you’ve just invested in a new vessel, the prospect of towing it on a trailer might seem daunting. Worry not—this guide aims to answer all your boat-towing questions.

In This Guide, You’ll Learn About:

• Legal weight limits for towing your boat.
• Types of driver’s licenses required for towing.
• Best practices for safely securing your boat on the trailer.
• Tips for prepping your boat motor for transport.

What Am I Legally Permitted to Tow on My Trailer?

The first step before hitting the road is to determine the weight limits your trailer can legally handle and the combined weight of your boat and trailer.

(Please note that the regulations may change from country to country, the regulations below are based on Norwegian legislation. Make sure to make note of the regulations where you are driving and towing a boat on trailer).

If You Hold a Class B Driving License:

• You’re authorized to tow a trailer and cargo with a maximum total weight of 750 kg.
• The combined weight of your car and trailer should not exceed 3500 kg.

For Those with a Class BE License Issued Before January 19, 2013:

• Calculating the trailer’s total allowed weight isn’t necessary; simply verify the allowed trailer weight and combined vehicle weight indicated on your vehicle’s registration card.

For Those with a Class BE License Issued On or After January 19, 2013:

• The trailer’s maximum allowable total weight is 3500 kg. Suppose the trailer’s weight goes above this limit. In that case, the driver must possess a C1E license, even if the towing vehicle belongs to the same class.

Securing Your Boat: Attention to Detail Can Make All the Difference

Before embarking on your journey, properly strap down your boat. Understand that the load can shift while in motion or under different wind conditions, which makes securing the boat from all angles crucial.

The Ideal Strap Arrangement:

• Place one strap at the boat’s bow, securing it to the front of the trailer.
• Use two straps at the stern, one on the port side and one on the starboard side.

Position the bow strap in a V-formation, running the strap through the bow hook and back to the trailer for optimal security. Attach the stern straps to the boat’s cleats on both the port and starboard sides. To protect the boat’s gel coating, insert a cloth between the strap and the hull or deck.

Once everything is strapped in, take an additional lap around your boat to double-check the tightness of all straps. Better safe than sorry.

How Should I Secure the Motor for Transportation?

When moving your boat on a trailer, your motor needs special attention. Always ensure it is in its designated ‘transport’ position. To do this:

1. Tilt the motor as far up as possible.
2. Loosen the transport lock.
3. Set the lock in place.
4. Gently tilt the motor back until the lock is fully secured.

In Conclusion

And there you have it—your complete guide to transporting a boat on a trailer. Whether you’re a seasoned boater preparing for the off-season or a new boat owner eager to get out on the water, understanding the intricacies of towing is essential for a safe and stress-free journey. We’ve covered everything from the type of driving license you’ll need to the nitty-gritty of securing your boat and motor for transportation.

Always remember: safety first. Double-check your straps, consult your vehicle’s registration card for weight limits, and ensure your motor is sufficiently secured. When in doubt, there’s no harm in seeking professional advice or consulting the regulations laid out by the authorities.

Thank you for joining us in this article. Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge you need, you and your boat are ready for whatever the road—and the water—have in store for you.

Bonus Resource

For a hands-on tutorial, don’t miss this insightful video on boat securing by the Nordkapp technical team: How to Secure Your Boat on a Trailer: A Video Guide by Nordkapp Boats

Nordkapp Boats wish you safe travels on land and water.