If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How much does boat towing cost?”, you’re not alone. The cost for towing a boat in 2025 isn't fixed. It can vary depending on the transport route and the distance your boat needs to cover. Additionally, the type of boat transport service you choose when you’re moving your boat across the state or relocating it from the marina to your home also matters.
Learning about the pricing helps you plan better, especially when you want to ensure your boat arrives safely without surprise fees or delays.
This guide can help you understand both on-water and road towing methods, covers cost factors, and explains how our team at Set Sail Boat Transport strives to deliver safe delivery of every boat.
Cost Comparison Between On-Water Towing and Road Towing
When figuring out how much does boat towing cost, it’s important to know the two main transport types, including on-water towing and road towing.
On-Water Towing
On-water towing means moving your boat across waterways using a towboat, barge, or specialized marine vessel. It’s ideal:
- When easily accessible routes connect your boat’s pickup and delivery points.
- This method minimizes overland handling and reduces the risk of potential damage.
- It ensures smooth transport for larger boats or yachts that can’t easily be trailered.
Factors That Affect On-Water Towing Rates
- Longer or tighter waterways cost more due to fuel use and navigation time.
- Heavier or wider boats need more power and equipment.
- Locks, tides, and weather can delay travel and increase labor costs.
- Remote marinas or seasonal conditions can increase the price per mile.
Road Towing
Road towing involves boat hauling on a specialized transport truck or a trailer from one location to another by road. It’s usually chosen by the transporters when there are no possible water routes. When you want to know how much does boat towing cost, you’ll see that road towing is effective for shorter distances and smaller boats. However, you have to keep in mind that you might have to obtain permits and expertise for your oversized loads.
Factors That Affect Road Towing Rates
- Longer hauls cost more, especially for oversized permits.
- Larger or taller boats require escort vehicles or route changes.
- Some states charge higher tolls and fuel prices.
- Booking during busy seasons or weekends can lead to higher costs.
| Service Type | Per-Mile Costs | When It’s Most Appropriate |
| On-Water Towing | $10.00 to $20.00 | When ports, lakes, or coastal routes connect pickup and delivery points |
| Road Towing | $5.00 to $16.00 | When the boat cannot be moved on water because of no possible water routes |
Set Sail Boat Transport can help you get accurate quotes and dependable delivery. Invest in our boat transportation services without worrying about the size of your boat or the distance you want it to cover.
How Set Sail Boat Transport Ensures Safe Delivery of Every Boat
It’s a natural phenomenon that everybody who hires a professional transporter expects their boat to be treated with care from start to finish. We at Set Sail Boat Transport deliver that confidence by combining experience, reliable logistics, and transparent communication.
Here’s how we strive to keep your boats safe:
- Use certified and trained drivers who specialize in boat transport.
- Secure each boat using marine-grade straps, cradles, and support systems.
- Inspect every vessel before pickup and after delivery to verify its condition.
- Plan routes carefully to avoid low bridges, rough terrain, or unsafe roads.
- Monitor every shipment in real time and provide clear updates during transit.
- Maintain proper insurance coverage for all transported vessels.
This dedication to your boat’s safety has earned Set Sail Boat Transport a strong reputation among boat owners who value precision and peace of mind when they’re looking for how much does boat towing cost. When you choose us, you’re investing in the security of your boat.