Launching an Inflatable Boat: Safe Launch and Recovery

July 11, 2026 | By Yacht Tender Team

Launching and recovering a tender is one of the most critical operations on a yacht. Done correctly, it's a smooth, routine procedure. Done poorly, it can damage equipment, injure crew, or even lead to the loss of the tender. This guide covers the three primary launch methods and best practices for each.

Pre-Launch Checklist

Before launching, always verify:

• Tube pressure is at operating level (3.0-3.5 PSI)
• Drain plug is installed and secure
• All safety equipment is aboard (PFDs, VHF, anchor)
• Fuel tank is secured and connected
• Outboard motor is tilted up to avoid grounding
• Painter (bow line) is secured to the yacht
• No lines are trailing in the water near the propeller

Method 1: Davit Launch

Davits are the most common tender launch system on yachts 40ft and larger. They use a crane or arm system to lift and lower the tender.

Launching Procedure

1. Remove all securing straps and chocks
2. Attach the davit lifting bridle to the designated lifting points
3. Ensure the bridle is balanced and all connections are secure
4. Slowly lift the tender just clear of the deck or chocks
5. Swing the davit arm to position the tender over the water
6. Lower smoothly, keeping hands clear of pinch points
7. Once the tender is floating, disconnect the lifting bridle
8. Board from the yacht's swim step or boarding ladder

Recovery Procedure

1. Approach the yacht at low speed, into the current or wind
2. Have a crew member ready with the painter
3. Secure the painter to the yacht
4. Attach the lifting bridle to the designated points
5. Ensure all passengers have disembarked
6. Lift smoothly, watching for snags
7. Swing the tender to the deck or chocks
8. Secure with straps and chocks

Method 2: Crane Lift

Larger yachts often use a deck crane for tender operations. The procedure is similar to davit launching but requires additional attention to swing radius and load control.

Key Considerations

• Use a spreader bar to distribute the load evenly across lifting points
• Never exceed the crane's rated capacity
• Account for the tender's weight including motor, fuel, and water
• Use tag lines to control swing during lifting
• Ensure the crane operator has clear visibility or a spotter

Method 3: Beach Launch

For yacht owners who anchor out and use their tender to reach shore, beach launching is a common technique.

Beach Landing Procedure

1. Approach the beach at slow speed, watching for swimmers and rocks
2. Assess the bottom type, sand is ideal; avoid rocky areas
3. Tilt the outboard up before reaching shallow water
4. Have a crew member step out in knee-deep water to hold the bow
5. Pull the tender up the beach beyond the wave line
6. Secure the painter to a stable object or sand anchor

Beach Departure

1. Push the tender into knee-deep water
2. Board quickly and start the engine
3. Lower the outboard once in sufficient depth
4. Back away from the beach before turning
5. Watch for waves and surf conditions

Safety During Launch Operations

Weather Considerations

Never launch or recover a tender in conditions exceeding your skill level. Wind, waves, and current all affect the operation. If conditions are marginal, wait for a weather window.

Crew Communication

Establish clear hand signals or radio communication before beginning. The person on the crane or davit controls must be able to see the tender and the person on the tender simultaneously.

Weight Management

Never launch a tender with passengers aboard. Launch empty, board from the water, and distribute weight evenly. See our tender sizing guide for weight capacity information.

Common Launching Mistakes

• Forgetting to install the drain plug
• Not securing the fuel tank before launching
• Starting the engine in shallow water (damages impeller)
• Failing to use a painter line during launch
• Overloading the tender before it's in the water

Conclusion

Safe launching and recovery requires preparation, communication, and practice. Follow these procedures consistently, and always prioritize safety over speed. Read our safety guide for more tips, and browse our tender collection for boats designed for easy launching.