Types of Trailers for Sailboats

Small sailboat owners require trailers to store boats or transport them. The best sailboat trailer has adjustable rollers and pads to fit the contours of the boat's hull for support. Padded bars are another excellent feature. A sturdy trailer will have hitches and attachments to support the strain of the load. Other accessories include safety chains, stoplights, directional signals and taillights. Brakes on the trailer also are an excellent option.

  1. Galvanized trailers

    • Traditionally, saltwater sailing requires a galvanized trailer. Designed with galvanized welded joints, this trailer prevents saltwater from rusting the joints' bolts. These trailers are designed for larger sailboats with a fixed keel and centerboard.

    Aluminum trailers

    • Aluminum trailers are light and easy to handle. A popular trailer for day sailors, an aluminum trailer typically handles loads of up to 250 pounds. They are assembled with bolts or galvanized welding. These are perfect for small lake and river launches.

    Catamaran trailers

    • Catamaran trailers are multi-undercarriage sporting a triad design. A catamaran trailer also has two supporting wing bars and a single axle. They typically can handle a 500-pound, 16-foot-by-8-foot catamaran. The trailers often have submersible taillights, safety chains, padded cradles, winch and epoxy-coated springs.

    Small Boat Trailers

    • Small boat trailers often are aluminum, with a single undercarriage and axle. The cradles are padded and adjustable depending on the boat's length. A typical trailer also has submersible taillights, safety chains, adjustable brackets and bow stop and a rear-loading roller. These trailers can handle a 200-pound, 15-foot-by-53-inch boat.