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Top 5 Reasons TowBoatU.S. Gets the Call
July 5, 2026 • By TowBoatU.S.
BoatUS looked at the numbers behind thousands of tows nationwide to find out what actually strands boaters on the water. Here's what tops the list, and how a few minutes of prep can keep you off it.
What's really stranding boaters?
More than half of all tows are for mechanical breakdowns, most of them preventable with a quick check before you leave the dock.
Lower your odds before you leave the dock
- Service your engine regularly, and check belts, hoses, and fluids before a trip.
- Know the local charts and markers, and watch tide and depth in unfamiliar water.
- Test your battery and check the connections before heading out.
- Top off fuel and keep a safety margin for the trip back.
- Check your cooling system, raw water intake, impeller, and coolant, before you go.
Even with the best prep, things happen out on the water. That's why TowBoatU.S. is here 24/7. Save our number, or become a member and never worry about the cost of a tow.