[quote=rehmbo]My methods vary depending on weather, steepness of ramp, etc. In general I get the trailer in as far as I can without submerging the wheel bearings. Then push off and handle the boat in the water to get it pointed into the wind/waves. Having a second person who knows boats and can either man the boat or vehicles is (of course) a must. Doing it by yourself the first time would be pretty difficult.
If there is an onshore breeze (wind blowing from the water toward the launch point) or any kind of strong shifty breeze, no sails can be up during the process. Once in the water, I've been known to sail the boat on jib alone (easy to furl/unfurl on an H18) over to a beach before raising the main. You could do the same to get the boat over to a pier or mooring.
If there is an offshore breeze and its not too strong or shifty, then I often raise the sails while still on the ramp before launching. Keep in mind there is risk here. Use cautious judgement as boats capsizing on concrete or other boats is not pretty. Make sure the jib and main sheet (and related travelers) are as loose and free to move as possible to allow the main to weather-vane as the wind direction changes.
If you have beach wheels (best solution), you can push the boat off onto the wheels, rig up facing into the wind, and then maneuver down the ramp (forward or backward) facing the breeze.
In the end, there is no magic here. Common sense should get you through it.<!-- editby --><em>Edited by rehmbo on Jan 08, 2012 - 07:24 AM.</em><!-- end editby --> [/quote]
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