Transporting your boat in Switzerland: Rules and advice for safe transport

🛠️ Contents

1. Introduction
2. Rules of the road for transporting a boat in Switzerland
3. Permits and regulations for trailers
4. Tips for safe transport
5. Launching: procedure and precautions
6. FAQ

Transporting your boat

Whether exploring a new lake or winterizing your boat, knowing how to transport your boat with a trailer is essential for any boater in Switzerland. This guide explains road rules, trailer regulations, and how to safely launch your boat.

📜 Rules of the road for transporting a boat in Switzerland

When transporting a boat on a trailer, a number of rules must be observed:

✔️ Total authorised weight The sum of the weight of the towing vehicle, trailer and boat must not exceed the limit shown on your driving licence.
✔️ Maximum width 2.55 m for standard vehicles, unless special authorisation is granted.
✔️ Maximum length 18.75 m for a car + trailer combination.
✔️ Plates and lights The trailer must have a clean number plate and working lights.
✔️ Maximum speed 80 km/h on motorways and main roads.

💡 Tip: Before each departure, check the tyre pressure on the trailer and the securing of the boat.

📝 Permits and regulations for trailers

1. Do I need a special permit?

🔹 B driving licence (standard car) Sufficient if the total weight (vehicle + trailer) does not exceed 3.5 tonnes.
🔹 BE licence Compulsory if the trailer exceeds 750 kg and the combination exceeds 3.5 tonnes.

2. Do I need to insure my trailer?

✔️ If the trailer exceeds 750 kgIt must be insured separately.
✔️ Car liability insurance generally covers small trailers.

3. Technical inspection of the trailer

📌 Trailers registered in Switzerland must undergo periodic roadworthiness tests depending on their weight and use.

🔧 Tips for safe transport

🚨 Pre-departure checks
✔️ Make sure the boat is properly strapped and balanced on the trailer.
✔️ Check the connection of the lights and the condition of the tyres.
✔️ Distribute the weight correctly to avoid swaying.

🏞️ On the road
✔️ Adapt your speed, especially when going downhill.
✔️ Leave enough braking distance.
✔️ Take breaks to check the coupling.

🌊 Launching: procedure and precautions

1. Choosing the right launching ramp

Many Swiss lakes have ramps (some require authorisation or payment).

2. Preparing your boat before you hit the water

✔️ Remove all straps except the front one.
✔️ Check the drain plug.
✔️ Prepare the ropes and start the engine.

3. Launch safely

1️⃣ Slowly move the trailer backwards until the boat floats.
2️⃣ Untie the front strap and gently push the boat into the water.
3️⃣ Park your vehicle and trailer in an authorised area.

💡 Tip: To remove the boat from the water, proceed in reverse order and make sure that the trailer is well submerged.

❓ FAQ - Everything you need to know about boat transport in Switzerland

1. Can a boat be transported without a registered trailer?

No, any trailer over 750 kg must be registered and insured.

2. What is the maximum authorised weight for a boat trailer?

It depends on your licence and the towing vehicle. Check the vehicle registration document.

3. Where can I find boat ramps in Switzerland?

Each lake has its own infrastructure, so check the websites of the local ports.

4. Do I have to pay to launch my boat?

Some ramps are free, while others require a vignette or a one-off payment.

5. Can you drive on the motorway with a boat on a trailer?

Yes, but the maximum speed is limited to 80 km/h.

Safety and rules of the road

Transporting your boat with a trailer in Switzerland means complying with certain road and safety rules. Good preparation guarantees a trouble-free journey and a fast, efficient launch. Fair winds and happy sailing! 🚤🌊