Launching A Boat On Floating Brick Docking System
Launching a boat on a floating brick docking system is a little more involved than launching from a traditional fixed dock, but it follows a straightforward sequence: check the dock is secure, prepare the boat, position it, lower it into the water, then secure it to the dock.
A floating brick docking system, often referred to as Float Bricks, is a modular floating dock made up of connected buoyant sections, similar in principle to the pontoons covered in our guide to boat storage solutions . Launching onto one safely comes down to checking the dock’s condition, preparing your boat, lowering it carefully, and securing it once it’s afloat. Weather conditions such as wind and waves can affect the process, so caution and common sense are essential throughout.
Steps to Launch a Boat on a Floating Brick Docking System
- Make sure that the brick docking system is securely anchored in place and is stable enough to support the weight of your boat. Check for any signs of damage or deterioration that could affect its ability to hold your boat.
- Prepare your boat for launch by removing any covers, disconnecting the trailer, and securing all loose items on board.
- Position your boat at the end of the brick docking system that is closest to the water. Make sure that the boat is centred and aligned with the dock.
- Slowly lower your boat into the water using a boat ramp or a crane. Make sure that the boat is level and stable before releasing it from the ramp or crane.
- Once your boat is in the water, secure it to the brick docking system using ropes or lines. Make sure that the boat is positioned correctly and is not at risk of drifting away from the dock. If you're docking without extra crew, see our tips on the art of short-handed boat berthing (https://www.boatsonline.com.au/boating-tips/the-art-of-short-handed-boat-berthing/) for techniques that apply here too.
- Adjust the position of the brick docking system if necessary to ensure that your boat is safely and securely moored.
- Once your boat is fully secured, disconnect any remaining lines or ropes and begin your boating adventure.
A Note on Weather Conditions
It’s important to note that launching a boat on a floating brick docking system can be affected by weather conditions such as wind and waves. Always exercise caution and use common sense when launching and docking your boat, and check the weather forecast before you head out (https://www.boatsonline.com.au/boating-tips/boating-safety-check-the-weather-forecast/) to avoid being caught out by changing conditions.
Watch It in Action
In the accompanying video, Brendon Grieve from Motoryachts Unlimited shows how to dock on Float Bricks. After forging a career spanning three decades working in the luxury end of recreational boating, Brendon decided to put his experience into his own business, and Motoryachts Unlimited was established. As a well-respected member of the marine industry, during this time Brendon was able to grow a vast network of business partners both locally and internationally.
See Floating Docks For Sale on BoatsOnline
Frequently Asked Questions
Is launching on a floating brick docking system harder than a fixed dock?
It is a little more involved than launching from a traditional fixed dock, but it remains relatively straightforward if you check the dock’s stability, prepare your boat properly, and follow a careful sequence of positioning, lowering and securing the boat.
What should I check before launching onto a floating brick dock?
Make sure the brick docking system is securely anchored in place and stable enough to support the weight of your boat, and check for any signs of damage or deterioration that could affect its ability to hold the boat.
How do I secure my boat once it's in the water?
Once the boat is in the water, secure it to the brick docking system using ropes or lines, making sure it is positioned correctly and is not at risk of drifting away from the dock. Adjust the position of the docking system if necessary to keep the boat safely and securely moored.
Does weather affect launching on a floating brick docking system?
Yes. Launching can be affected by weather conditions such as wind and waves, so it’s important to always exercise caution and use common sense when launching and docking your boat.
Can I use a boat ramp or a crane to lower the boat onto a floating brick dock?
Yes, either method works. Slowly lower the boat into the water using a boat ramp or a crane, and make sure it is level and stable before releasing it from the ramp or crane.
