Re: Docking question
A stationary boat lift is one that is secured to a dock/pier/pylons, etc. and remains where it is set. This would be the standard boat lift that you see behind someone's home or in the local canals. Aluminum I-beams, cables, bunks, etc.
A floating boat lift is one that has a hydraulic (usually water actuated) ram on the floor of a metal frame. This ram is connected to a pump and when the water is applied to it, lifts the boat up on a cradle. There are usually walkways attached to it for ease of boat maintenance. These , although heavy, are portable.
Check these pics for clarification:

The first pic is a stationary lift and the second is a portable lift.
~~~OR~~~ You could have done this:
http://tinyurl.com/4o2jheg