Slipway
A slipway (English slipway , sometimes also referred to as a boat ramp ) is an inclined plane ( ramp ) on which boats and ships can be lowered into the water or pulled ashore. Slips or slipways can be found in shipyards , on public waters or as an establishment of yacht clubs . The latter are partly publicly accessible, but not always free of charge.
If large / heavy boats or ships are to be pulled out of the water, a patent slip is required. Corresponding systems are equipped with rails on which one or more elevator cars (slip cars) run, which carry the ship. The slip trolleys are moved with the help of motor winches . To slip a ship, the empty wagon is first driven under the waterline. The ship is then maneuvered over the slip cart and pulled out of the water with it.
In the case of smaller sports boats , a motor vehicle trailer ( trailer ) can also be used, whereby the boat is backed into the water; for this purpose the light bar of the trailer must be dismantled. When the watercraft on the trailer floats and moves away from its attachment, the empty trailer can be pulled out of the water again. If the watercraft is to be pulled ashore, this is done in reverse. Alternatively, pleasure craft can also be brought into the water with a crane .
Slip systems are sometimes also used in amphibious vehicles such as hovercraft or amphibious aircraft, so that they can roll or slide on land after travel or landing, where more convenient loading and unloading is possible.
