There’s no feeling like hitting a wave at just the right angle with a new jet ski. While being safe is crucial while on the water, storing your personal watercraft PWC for short) securely is essential too! With all the different options on the market, how do you choose the best one for you and your watercraft? Understanding the different types of PWC lifts can help you make an informed decision.
Types of Lifts
Several options are available for docking your PWC. Some of those include: Rotating PWC Lifts, Dock Mount PWC Lifts, Piling Mount PWC Lifts, Drive-on Jet Ski Ports, and Freestanding PWC Lifts. Each lift offers its own set of benefits. The best fit depends on your location, dock, and individual needs.
Jet Ski Ports
A drive-on PWC dock makes launching and storing a jet ski simple. With no motor, hoist, or lifting cable required, drive-on docks offer a low-maintenance option that works especially well where electricity isn't readily available. Simply drive the PWC onto the port for storage and slide it back into the water when you’re ready to ride.
Jet Ski Lifts
Jet ski lifts are perhaps the most popular type of PWC lift. Mechanical PWC lifts are available in several configurations, including dock-mounted, pile-mounted and free-standing systems. The best option depends on factors such as your dock or shoreline setup, water conditions, available power, required travel and the size and weight of your PWC. They offer many benefits over other types of lifts, including:
- being permanently affixed to the shore (meaning they won’t move around in rough waters)
- protection from the elements
- easy storage (you can just drive your jet ski onto the lift)
They are a safer choice for locations with rougher water, and they are easy to load and unload. The only downside is that they tend to be more expensive than other lift types. With so many installation options, it's worth comparing your choices before buying. With so many choices, you'll find an excellent fit for your needs. Below are a few general points to consider on these lifts.
- Saltwater – The Swinger Lift
- No electricity – Floating Drive-On or Mini MAXX
- Rough water – Dock Mount or Piling Mount
- Freezing water or no dock – Free-standing lift
- Travel over 10 feet – PWC Davits
- Deep water without pilings or a dock – Floating Drive-On
- Existing Boathouse – Cradle kit
PWC Lifts from Boat Lift Warehouse
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a PWC lift. But by taking the time to understand your needs and the different types of lifts on the market, you’ll be sure to find one that’s perfect for you and your jet ski. At Boatlift Warehouse, we offer the full array of lifts for your personal watercraft, whether it be a simple jet ski drive-on dock or something with a little more protection. Our team of boating experts is here to connect you with the right option for your lifestyle. To learn more about your options or to buy your next lift, visit our website.
