TRITON YACHT TRANSPORTERS       

The following guidelines should be considered in the preparation of a powerboat for transportation.  The bottom of the boat needs to be clean with all growth, etc having been removed, preferably by pressure washing.

    Windshields, Windows, Hatches - Make sure that the windshield is strong enough to withstand the rigors of travel and that it is attached
    securely.  When in doubt then remove it prior to transport.   Frameless plexiglass windshields should be removed due to possibility of
    breaking.  Venturi's with solid frames should be removed to prevent cracking around the fastening holes.  Close all windows and hatches
    and lock down so that they will not come open during the trip. 

    Tankage - Preferably the water tanks should be drained and ideally the holding tank pumped out prior to the trip.  The fuel tank(s) can be left
    with fuel in it in the smaller boats.  If the boat exceeds 30,000-35,000 lbs, the fuel tanks need to be drained.

    Anchor - Anchors should be secured so they can withstand the rigors of travel and do not cause damage during transit.  This can be on the
    anchor roller on the bow of the boat when feasible.

    Canvas and Covers - Dodger, biminis, awnings, etc need to be removed and stowed in the cabin.  The frames should be tied and secured
    such that there is no movement and no scratching of the metal.  Any other canvas on deck such as hatch covers should be removed and
    stowed.  All instrument covers need to be removed and stowed.

    Cabin Interior - Secure everything in the cabin so there would not be any damage during transit.

    Motors - Any inboard/outboard motors should be raised and locked in position.  A further safety measure would be to securely attach a 2
    x 4 between the out-drive and bracket.  Outboard motors should be raised and locked securely so there will not be any extraneous
    movement during transportation.

    Height Issues - The allowable height in most states is 13.5' for transit without a special permit and the need for a pole car.  Things that will
    decrease the height of a powerboat would be radar arches being removed, removal of flybridge, radar, propeller(s) and running gear.
    Occassionally removal of the shaft is necessary.  Transportation cost is significantly less if the boat can travel without requiring a pole car.

    Miscellaneous - Lock the entry access to the boat on exiting so that it remains closed during the trip.  Remove any items from the rails and
    on deck that could vibrate loose, blow around and be damaged or damage the boat.  Shut the propane tank off at the tank.  Pump out the
    bilge so that it is dry.  If the boat is being transported during the winter the engine and the air conditioning sytems need to be winterized.

The thing to remember is that during transit the exterior of your boat will be exposed to near hurricane force winds and she needs to be prepared so that everything is secured and tied down for a safe and uneventful trip.  We hope that the above is helpful in knowing what is involved in preparing your powerboat and please contact us at 252.249.2001 if you have any questions and we will be happy to assist you.