Don, It's easier to beg for forgiveness than ask
for permission. Old saying. I tow my 95 H26 behind a 93 Ford 1/2 ton 4x4 pick-up without special permits. This is a risk I felt comfortable assuming and that is probably very stupid! That said, what follows is how I do it. I have a very nice set of mirrors that cover both sides of the truck and boat. The truck, boat and trailer are also spotlessly clean. The trailer is in excellent condition with all lights working, good tires and fenders, and the licence plate is very visable. The truck and trailer package give the appearence that you are not trying to hide anything. You almost have a professional appearence. I tow wisely, safely and at low traffic volumn times. If I forsee a possible traffic problem I have my wife follow in her car. This gives a small buffer and security when in a high traffis area. We have never had a problem in over 5500 miles on 4 to 6 lane freeways and on single lane back roads. My insurance agent knows I tow my boat but the permit question has never come up. We do live in NE Washington State, but I have towed from Denver Colorado to home and all over Washington, Idaho and Montana without problems. The main difference in your and my situations might be in the fact that I have a "farm policy" that covers all farming activities and vehicles. Also, you will find that all 24 to 28 foot powerboats have wider beams, and therefore wider trailers, than sailboats. They tow without permits all the time. Access risks, talk to your agent and procede. The final, and only valid opinion will come from your agent. Now haul fanny and sail. Ray S/V Speedy
