What Size Boat Lift Do I Need?

Boat LiftThere are many factors to consider when choosing a boat lift for your waterfront property, and among the most important of these is the size and capacity of the lift system you’ll need to accommodate your vessel. Accurately assessing the weight and width of your watercraft is essential to ensuring a lift system’s longevity as well as the safety of its operation.

It’s best to determine what the maximum weight of your watercraft will be to ensure your lift system can always manage the load. This involves determining the dry weight of your watercraft, which includes the fuel, water carried in areas such as livewells, gear, and other factors. This should be outlined in the manufacturer specifications for your watercraft. However, you’ll also need to account for any non-factory additions made to your boat. Additionally, you’ll want to consider any loose items you store on your boat, such as supplies and watersport gear. Even the weight of smaller items can add up. Finally, it is best to leave yourself some breathing room by purchasing a boat lift with a capacity that is more than you expect you’ll ever need.

After determining the required boat lift capacity, you’ll also need to work out the required cradle width. This involves measuring the beam of your watercraft, which is essentially the widest part of your boat. With this information, you should also consider the water depth where your boat lift will go to ensure it can be lowered safely.

As one of the leading boat lift manufacturers in the industry, DECO Boat Lifts offers lift systems in a wide range of sizes and capacities to suit the needs of virtually any watercraft owners. We will be happy to share our knowledge with you to help you determine your required boat lift size.