Slipping is part of the start of the season for many trailer sailors. With good preparation and a calm approach, the manoeuvre is usually easy to master. It is crucial to check the conditions at the slip ramp carefully in advance and to correctly assess the typical risks.
Check the slipway carefully in advance
The length, gradient and condition of the slipway should be clarified before launching. The question of whether the ramp is particularly slippery or has a problematic end edge also plays an important role.
If these points remain unchecked, unpleasant surprises can occur. In an unfavourable case, the wheels of the trailer may run over the end edge of the slipway, causing the trailer to partially sink in.
Don't leave the choice of harbour to chance
Such details are best clarified before the journey. When choosing a harbour, it makes sense to ask which boats the respective facility can handle. The harbour master is usually best placed to assess this.
When the manoeuvre becomes challenging
Slipping is relatively straightforward under normal conditions. It becomes more challenging when there is a sideways-setting current or strong crosswinds or onshore winds shift the boat.
If there are no such aggravating circumstances, the manoeuvre can usually be carried out in a controlled manner. It remains important to approach each step with preparation and to interrupt the manoeuvre in good time in the event of uncertainty.
Carry out preparations on land if possible
One advantage of slipping is that much of the work can be done on land. The mast can often be set before the boat is lowered into the water. This makes the process easier because the boat is stationary and small parts that fall off do not land directly in the water.
It is important that the trailer remains coupled to the towing vehicle until it is actually slipped. If there are no rear trailer supports and there are already several people in the cockpit, the trailer may tip backwards.
Steep ramps, algae and shallow banks as risk factors
Special care is required on steep and algae-covered slipways. The towing vehicle can lose grip there. In an unfavourable case, it may slide into the water or not find enough traction to pull the boat out again later.
All-wheel drive vehicles have an advantage in such conditions. However, very shallow slippage can also be problematic, for example on a simple lakeshore or on a beach. There is then a risk of vehicle parts getting too deep into the water.
Create distance with a rope
In both cases, a rope between the towing vehicle and trailer can help. This keeps the vehicle on dry or level ground while the trailer is brought further into the water.
The exact position counts when slipping
Unlashing is always carried out in reverse order. It is particularly important that the boat is centred on the trailer and that it also lies correctly lengthways.
Subsequent corrections are usually hardly possible or only possible with considerable effort. Working accurately at the first attempt therefore saves time and effort.
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Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
