Posted on July 6, 2023
A Buyers Guide to Choosing the Best PWC Lift
Written by HydroHoist Marketing
Your PWC deserves the same security and protection from the elements as larger boats. PolyDock offers specialized boat lifts designed specifically for smaller skiffs. PolyDock can help you find the best one for protecting and maintaining your watercraft while keeping your watercraft nearby whenever you want to set out.
How to Choose the Best PWC Lift for Your Watercraft
The best PWC lift for your personal watercraft accommodates its size and weight while offering the features you find most convenient.
What is a PWC lift?
A PWC lift, or PWC floating dock, is a boat lift system designed for smaller, lighter watercraft like Jet Skis, Sea-Doos, and Waverunners. Similar to lifts designed for larger watercraft, the purpose of a PWC lift is to elevate and protect small skiffs and other personal watercraft when they are not in use. They also give boaters convenient access to the watercraft and shore.
Why do I need a PWC lift for my watercraft?
You need a PWC lift for your watercraft because it isn’t meant to stay in the water full time. Too much exposure to water when the PWC isn’t in use can lead to water absorption and cause damage to the hull. Damage can range from aesthetic issues to performance-related issues that can affect the overall functionality of the PWC.
Hoisting it on a lift also makes it much easier to mitigate damage because it gives you better access to the hull and sides of your craft for cleaning and maintenance. Keeping your PWC hoisted on a lift also ensures it remains in a stable position without drifting into the side of your boat dock or other hazards in the water, such as boats or debris. The added protection means it’s not susceptible to adverse weather conditions like harsh winds and storms. Enhance PWC protection with a canopy and cover for lasting durability!
What are the different types of PWC lifts available?
PWC lifts come in a few different varieties based on size and operation. There are vertical and hydraulic PWC lifts on the market, as well as drive up jet ski lifts. Rather than using a remote control or a manual wheel to raise the PWC out of the water, a drive-on port allows the PWC rider to dock their watercraft with a gentle flick of the throttle, which makes it glide into place over rollers. Disembarking by pushing off the dock when you’re ready to head out again is effortless. PolyDock has PWC lifts of both types available.
How do I know what size PWC lift to get for my watercraft?
PWC lifts come in various sizes and capacities tailored to specific watercraft types, so it’s best to start with your watercraft. Measure the dimensions and size of your watercraft, including the hull shape and weight. Take into account any additional features that may impact the weight or weight distribution on the lift. This information will help in determining the appropriate lift for your watercraft. Your PolyDock dealer would also be happy to help you determine what size PWC lift you need.
What weight capacity do I need for my PWC lift?
Determining the minimum weight capacity for your jet ski floating dock is similar to determining the weight capacity for a larger boat dock. To start, you’ll need the dry weight of your PWC, which you can find in the spec sheet for your watercraft. Please note that the initial weight estimation is a starting point, not the final calculation.
While you don’t need to refuel your PWC the same way you would a larger boat, it’s important to consider the additional weight that can accumulate when bringing people and equipment on board. We recommend adding a 20% margin to the calculated weight capacity. This allows margins for any potential miscalculations or unexpected surprises. Adding all of those figures up gets you the number that you’ll need to take to your PolyDock dealer when you’re shopping for your PWC lift.