Raising and lowering the rig is easy, since the mast is so light; two methods prevail; either lifting the mast vertically then passing it to someone who holds onto the mast step while a second person attaches the stays; or one person walking the mast upright from the stern forward, with another person holding the base onto the mast step. A quick team can have the mast raised and tuned within less than 5 minutes. Most of the boats choose to leave their rigs up, and simply take 10 turns off the turnbuckles then flick a cover on.

Trailering the boat is fairly easy, since the weight of the Shaw means that the boat can easily be pulling onto the trailer; in addition a lifting bridle allows owners to lift the boat with a crane. The trailer provided is a road trailer with bunks and a support for the keel; the boat is guided onto the trailer, and then you pull out of the water; not need to winch or pull the boat.

The boat can be motored with the outboard bracket attached, or 2 paddles are sufficient to allow the boat to get around; typically the Shaw sails either with no engine or the engine stowed in the lockers below the cockpit floor.

The lockers on each side of the boat under the cockpit provide ample space for spare sails, food, gear, anchor and engine. Also available are storage bags and a boat cover.