How to Choose the Right Trailer for Your Boat

Choosing the right trailer for your boat is just as important as choosing the boat itself. Whether you're hauling your boat across the province or launching for a day on the bay, the right trailer makes all the difference in performance, safety, and convenience.

Let’s break down what you need to consider when buying a trailer for your boat.

Trailer Sizing

Before you begin searching for the right trailer, be sure you know these key measurements of your boat set up. You’ll want to look at:

• Boat Length (tip of bow to stern)
• Boat Width (beam)
• Total Weight (boat + motor + gear + fuel)

The trailer should be rated to safely carry the full weight of your boat setup—not just the dry hull.

Bunk vs. Roller

Bunk Trailers: 

Bunk trailers cradle the hull and provide strong, even support. These are the most common trailer style for recreational boaters.

Advantages:

• Cost-effective – Simple design makes them more affordable.
• Low maintenance – Fewer moving parts mean fewer repairs.
• Drive-on capability – Easily launch and retrieve your boat.
• Great for storage – Offers solid support for long-term boat storage.

Disadvantages:

• Water exposure – To launch or retrieve, the trailer needs to be submerged into the water, which can increase the risk of corrosion, especially in saltwater.

Roller Trailers:

Roller trailers use a series of adjustable rollers that support and guide your boat, making launching and loading a breeze.

Advantages:

• Shallow water friendly – Less need to back deep into the water.
• Reduced corrosion risk – Trailer stays drier, especially helpful in saltwater environments.

Disadvantages:

• More expensive – Higher initial investment.
• More maintenance – Additional moving parts may require more care.

Single Axle vs. Tandem Axle

Single axle trailers have 1 wheel on each side, making them best for lighter loads and maneuverability. Tandem axle trailers with 2 wheels on each side provide more stability for heavier loads.

Single Axle Trailers

• Lightweight and easier to maneuver
• Ideal for smaller boats and tighter spaces
• Lower cost and easier maintenance

Tandem Axle Trailers

• Better suited for heavier boats
• Provides smoother towing and better weight distribution
• Safer in the event of a tire or axle issue

Final Thoughts

The right trailer depends on how you plan to launch, where you boat, and how much you're hauling. If you're mostly using maintained ramps and want simple, long-term storage, a bunk trailer is a solid option. If you're dealing with shallow launches or saltwater environments, a roller trailer may be worth the extra investment.

Need help finding the perfect fit? The team at Blue Water Marine can walk you through your options and match you with the right trailer for your boat, budget, and lifestyle.