Boat lift/hoist use

[OneidaLakeSS188]

Hi Everyone,

I'm looking to see what others do in regards to use of their lift - or hoist as most people call it in NYS. I have a 19 foot boat, and my question pertains to whether or not people drive their boat on or stop along the dock and push it on.

I have always driven my boat right on. It was an older boat, and narrow enough so there was a lot of "wiggle room." I'm quite good at this, even in rough water. BUT... we've gotten a new boat, one with about 2 inches to spare on either side. Since I don't have it yet, I don't know if centering guides will work, or if I need to purchase a wide lift (worse case scenario.) My friend told me that he has always docked his 24 foot cabin cruiser, unloaded, and then pushed the boat onto the lift. So perhaps this may be a good solution for me as well. Again, we'll have to see once I am in receipt of the boat.

Any opinions, ideas, thoughts that may help me? Thanks, keep the beers on the dock.

Oneida

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Boat lift/hoist use

If anything the boat will contact is padded the most damage you will do by driving on will amount to scuffing at contact points. That can be easily reduced by driving on slowly or using a docking pole to pull yourself onto the lift. I made a pole out of golf club shaft. Epoxy a sturdy hook in the end. As you approach the lift, use the pole to latch onto the lift and gently pull yourself on.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Boat lift/hoist use

Ayuh,... It certainly sounds Safer to push it in, rather than destroying it if you Miss, motoring in..