Towing your boat

When towing your boat there are a few rules that must be followed to ensure that you can have a comfortable and easy ride to your boating destination.

The speed limit is 60mph on both motorways and dual carriageways, and a 50mph limit on single carriageway roads. Also you must not use the outer lane of a three or more lane motorway unless instructed to do so

For small trailers without brakes, the weight should be no more than 50% of the cars kerb weight or 750kg, depending on which is less. For large trailers with brakes, they must not weigh more than 85% of the cars kerb weight. It is also a legal requirement for the brakes to work, whether they are used or not.

You must be licensed to by holding a group A or category B, which allows you to tow a boat trailer up to a maximum weight of 8.25 tonnes. You must have at least third party insurance for both the tow car and the trailer. The number plate on the trailer must be identical to the tow car.

No sharp or dangerous points of the boat must be on show. You can use a bucket or reinforced carrier bags to cover propellers and masts. All indicators and lights must work on the trailer before setting off.

As well as following the sensible rules, it is also always an idea to do a third less speed as normal due to the fact that you are transporting a larger item than usual and avoid any sudden movements.