We have a deposit on a R31CB for delivery in the Pacific NW. We live in Hawaii, and don't have a car/truck on the mainland. Has anyone used a commercial service to tow or transport a Ranger to another part of the country? Any advice on costs, problems, things to know and so forth? Thanks, Ric
Towing around
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Bruce Moore
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sfladgard
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towing to where and does the boat have a trailer?
No, we live in Hawaii and we have no trailer and no vehicle in the NW to tow one. So I am wondering if anyone has used a commercial outfit to shift their Ranger from one cruising area to another, or whether that's impractical.
skultuggery
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Above, you brought up the word "impractical." For most, the issue really boils down to cost. But you might have some serious jingle in your pocket. I'd estimate that to transport your tug from Seattle, WA to Duluth, MN (gateway to the Great Lakes) would be in the ballpark of eight to twelve grand. Maybe that's chump change in which case it's not only practical, but a real gangster move.
Imagine bringing your tug to the ten best waterways of America and spending three weeks cruising each ground, and then take two weeks off ? During that off period your tug is hauled out and transported to the next waterway to a marina which preps the craft for it's next three week journey. All systems are maintained, the hull is power washed and polished, the interior cleaned out and your fridge is restocked with your specific instructions. During your off time you get on a plane and take a vacation somewhere from the excitement of tugging it. Then after your break, you go to where your tug has been hauled, get on your boat, turn the key and immerse yourself in the splendor of America's finest cruising grounds. Ten cruising grounds, over a one year period with time off in between. This way you avoid the grind that can creep in from long stretches on a 31 footer. Plus you can take a longer break at anytime in between such as Winter, although that's a good time to be down Key West Way. Cost of hauling your tug between waterways during this year might only be seventy to eighty grand if you work out a deal with one or two hauling companies. What's that for a full year of cruising nirvana?
I say do it. It's only money. And it'll be worth it. I'm located right on the Seneca River which is part of the Erie Canal System between Buffalo and Albany, NY which is a waterway that should be on your list of possible cruising grounds. Heck, If you come this way, I'll act as your liaison and assist with the logistics when you come through this area. My house is only a mile from where you can dock your tug for the night and I'll host a dinner showcasing some of the local food products that you should experience at least once in your life. Like Spiedies which originated in Binghamton, NY and Chicken Riggies which hail from Utica, NY. Be a nice stop along your amazing journey.
Imagine bringing your tug to the ten best waterways of America and spending three weeks cruising each ground, and then take two weeks off ? During that off period your tug is hauled out and transported to the next waterway to a marina which preps the craft for it's next three week journey. All systems are maintained, the hull is power washed and polished, the interior cleaned out and your fridge is restocked with your specific instructions. During your off time you get on a plane and take a vacation somewhere from the excitement of tugging it. Then after your break, you go to where your tug has been hauled, get on your boat, turn the key and immerse yourself in the splendor of America's finest cruising grounds. Ten cruising grounds, over a one year period with time off in between. This way you avoid the grind that can creep in from long stretches on a 31 footer. Plus you can take a longer break at anytime in between such as Winter, although that's a good time to be down Key West Way. Cost of hauling your tug between waterways during this year might only be seventy to eighty grand if you work out a deal with one or two hauling companies. What's that for a full year of cruising nirvana?
I say do it. It's only money. And it'll be worth it. I'm located right on the Seneca River which is part of the Erie Canal System between Buffalo and Albany, NY which is a waterway that should be on your list of possible cruising grounds. Heck, If you come this way, I'll act as your liaison and assist with the logistics when you come through this area. My house is only a mile from where you can dock your tug for the night and I'll host a dinner showcasing some of the local food products that you should experience at least once in your life. Like Spiedies which originated in Binghamton, NY and Chicken Riggies which hail from Utica, NY. Be a nice stop along your amazing journey.
knotflying
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There are plenty of boat hauling services to choose from. I am not sure what the current costs are, taking a wild guess because of fuel prices it could be around $5.00 per mile. If you want to take a long trip in sections I suggest the American Great loop. You can have your vessel transported to the spot closest to your current location and then enjoy six thousand miles of cruising. You can time laying up the boat and leaving based on seasons. Needless to say summer and up to late fall when north and Late spring and winter further south. The entire trip, to do it justice, should take a year and you can stretch that much longer.
batate
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i would second the great loop. We're only half way through, and the varied cruising locations are just stunning. We've learned boating on the Tennessee river, Florida coast, the keys, the sounds of North Carolina, the Chesapeake, the Jersey shore, and New York. We have yet to experience the Eerie, Trent-Severn, Georgia Bay, and great lakes. Lots of people do it in seasons over multiple years.
To the original question, we payed $3,000 to haul our boat from Ft Myers to Chattanooga. Diesel prices were starting to rise, but not where they are today. I'd say with labor and diesel scarce, you're looking at 25% above that number.
To the original question, we payed $3,000 to haul our boat from Ft Myers to Chattanooga. Diesel prices were starting to rise, but not where they are today. I'd say with labor and diesel scarce, you're looking at 25% above that number.