Boat Ramp Etiquette All Boaters Should Know!

As we begin experiencing warmer weather and draw closer to boating season, we felt it was important to share some boating rules of the road and launch-ramp etiquette. Ramp rage is a real thing and is often provoked by boaters who don't know the rules of the ramp, or worse, don't care that they're inconveniencing other boaters waiting in line. So, this week, Firstmate Controls is sharing with you a few boat ramp etiquette rules to follow to avoid ramp rage from ruining your day on the water!

Don't Block the Ramp if You're Not Ready to Launch
There are a lot of things to check and recheck before launching your boat. Waiting until you’re in the middle of a long line at a busy boat ramp is not the time to perform these tasks. When you pull into the parking lot, move to the side and let others go ahead and dump their boats. Put your plug in, take your straps off, take your motor toter off, plug in your graphs, put your lights in—whatever you have to do—before clogging up the line. Not only does this drastically help the flow of traffic, but it also ensures that you’re doing everything properly and safely because you’re not being rushed. Just move to the side, sip your coffee and take your time. Your fellow boaters will thank you.

Don't Hog the Ramp
A lot of marinas have multiple boat ramp lanes, but no concrete dividers. Essentially, they look like one really wide ramp. When the facility is busy, don’t go down the very middle of the ramp. That just clogs things up for everyone else in line. Dump your boat on the farthest side of the ramp as possible so other folks can launch next to you. There’s no reason one trailer needs to take up four or five lanes.

Hold the Chit Chat for After You've Parked Your Truck
While getting on the water is just the beginning of a great day well spent and everyone is in a fantastic mood, catching up at the ramp is NOT the ideal time or place. More than likely, you're not the only one trying to unload their boat, and your parked truck is slowing traffic, taking up an entire lane and probably ticking some people off. Be respectful and get your rig out of the way and then you can talk to your heart’s content.

Ask Permission Before Tying Up to Another Boat
While it may seem harmless, some people would prefer you not tie up to their boat. Be respectful and politely ask permission before tying up to someone else’s boat if there’s no more dock space left. It’s a good idea to keep a few cheap bumper buoys in your rod locker. This will ensure there’s no damage to the fiberglass, aluminum or rub rails on either boat. And to further extend on that, don’t walk across someone else’s boat without permission. You don't want to accidentally step on their fishing gear or equipment and break anything.

By following these simple boat ramp etiquette rules, you'll more quickly get on the water and avoid an unnecessary altercation at the ramp! If you've got your own dock, save yourself time and money by getting a Firstmate Boat Lift Remote Control for your lift and get on and off the water smoother and faster. No more hassle, no more irritation, just fun in the sun on the water. Contact us today to get your boat lift remote control ordered for this boating season!

Boat Lift Controls You Can Count On!


Firstmate Controls 
130 Century Commerce Loop
Labadie, MO 63055

Phone: (866) 570-9707



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