Trailer & Cradle Transport
Boats can be transported on their own road trailer or on specialist cradles provided by the transporter. If your boat is already on a suitable road trailer, transport is straightforward — the transporter simply hooks up and tows. For boats without trailers, transporters use hydraulic cradles, custom frames, or flatbed lorries with crane loading. The right method depends on your vessel's dimensions, weight, and keel type. Always provide accurate measurements when requesting quotes.
Oversize and Wide-Beam Vessels
Large yachts, catamarans, and wide-beam boats may exceed standard road width limits and require escort vehicles, police notification, and special route planning. This is the same STGO (Special Types General Order) process used for static caravans. Your transporter handles all permits and logistics, but these requirements mean larger vessels cost more and need longer lead times. For vessels over 2.9m beam, expect 2 to 4 weeks from enquiry to transport day.
Types of Boat We Cover
Our transporters move every type of vessel: sailing dinghies and day boats, RIBs and inflatable boats, fishing boats, narrowboats (by road), sailing yachts, motor cruisers, catamarans, jet skis, and canal boats. Whatever your vessel, describe it accurately and let specialist transporters quote on the job. The more detail you provide — length overall, beam, height from keel to highest fixed point, and approximate weight — the more accurate your quotes will be.
Marina to Marina Moves
Moving between marinas requires coordination with both the origin and destination marina for crane-in and crane-out. Many marinas have their own haulage equipment for lifting boats in and out of the water, and your transporter will coordinate with them on timing. Marina lift fees are usually charged separately from the road transport. Check with both marinas about their procedures and costs before booking transport.
Preparing Your Boat for Transport
Remove or secure all loose items, electronics, sails, biminis, and antennas. Drain water tanks and disconnect the battery. Close all seacocks and hatches. If the mast needs to be unstepped for road transport, arrange this with your marina before the transporter arrives. Provide clear access for loading — transporters need space for their vehicle and any lifting equipment.
FAQ
- Can you transport a boat without a trailer?
- Yes. Many transporters have specialist cradles, hydraulic equipment, and flatbed lorries with crane or hiab loading. They can collect boats directly from marina cradles or hard standing. Just let them know the boat has no trailer when posting your job.
- What information do transporters need to quote?
- Length overall (LOA), beam (maximum width), height from bottom of keel to highest fixed point, and approximate weight. Whether it is on a trailer and the type of vessel (sailing, motor, dinghy etc.) are also important. Accurate measurements mean accurate quotes.
- How much does boat transport cost?
- Costs vary widely depending on vessel size and distance. A small dinghy on a trailer might cost £100 to £250 for a short move. A 30ft yacht moved 200 miles could be £800 to £1,500. Wide-beam vessels requiring escort vehicles and permits cost more. Compare multiple quotes for your specific vessel and route.
- Do I need to arrange crane lifts at the marina?
- Usually yes. Most marinas charge separately for crane-in and crane-out. Your transporter can often coordinate the timing with the marina, but the lift fees are typically your responsibility. Check with both origin and destination marinas before booking.
Ready to Get Quotes?
It takes less than 2 minutes. Post your job and let transporters compete on price.