Hello and help with a trailer-sailer :o)

What was I saying in my post of last week about "know your trailer". I launched for the summer at the weekend. The launch went reasonably well and because the slip was too shallow for the boat to slide off (the break-back won't pivot unless the boat moves back slightly) I used the recommended method of a strong rope - giving a turn round the tow hitch before releasing the trailer - and then letting it out steadily until the boat floated off. This means the trailer is immersed (not ideal) and the car must then tow the trailer off the slip. Having recovered the trailer I stopped the car. The trailer, now light and very free wheeling, did not stop, overtaking the car until it ran out of rope. I leave the rest to your imagination but I have a few phone calls to make this morning. The upside was a fabulous solo sail yesterday.

Having looked at the other posts regarding boat selection, we have a number of trailered craft in my area of water and the Parker is certainly one to look at for accommodation and overall refinement. I quite agree the vehicle is the starting point and the other thing to think about is whether you will be launching every time you sail. Some boats - including mine - take a while to set up. Lifting the keel takes around 160 turns to start with (compensation is being able to set it at any draft you wish).

Finally I'm still unable to find the address for subs to the TSA. An e-mail to the site address has not had a response.
 
We use a 10m strop (plus my wife would say what ever one I happen to be having at the time) Back the trailer up and chock as near the water line as reasonable, attach the strop, back the trailer in, float the boat, trailer back out, chock, reattach to vehicle (break away cable as well, having had empty trailer run away in a car park when it had not been properly attached) and tow to car park.

Trail Sail Association had some cruises taking place this weekend.
 
Many thanks. I have followed various prescribed methods, including the long, heavy steel cable provided in a local marina for their steep slip (my wife reversed the car a little too quickly and the eye came off the car's tow ball!). This year I was caught out by the very slight slope on the boatyard at the top of the slip so must remember to re-connect just before the trailer is off the slip. It is surprising how quickly an empty boat trailer can move!
 
I bought a Copland Harrier 20 last week and will be taking it on the TSA Clyde cruise next w/e. I think there are alternative cruises on the South Coast too but can't be certain.

I'll send the address of the TSA membership secretary to anyone who wants it by private message.
 
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