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Beamless Boat Lifts Vs. Elevator Boat Lifts: Which Is Better?

red and black boat in need of a boat lift in cocoa beach

Are you tired of the hassle and stress that comes with launching and retrieving your fishing boat? If you’re looking to spend less time worrying about this and more time reeling in your next big catch, you’ll want to get yourself a boat lift in Cocoa Beach. Since an innovative boat lift system is designed to lift vessels out of the water and store them safely and securely when not in use, it makes it easier and more convenient to hit the water and cast your line.

When choosing the right boat lift system for your fishing boat, you may come across two options: beamless and elevator boat lifts. Although both systems are designed to conveniently, safely, and effectively lift boats out of the water, they have key differences you’ll want to consider before making a decision.

red and black boat in need of a boat lift in cocoa beach

What’s the Difference Between a Beamless Boat Lift and an Elevator Boat Lift?

You may wonder whether you should get yourself a beamless or elevator boat lift for your fishing vessel. It’s important to note that the right lift system depends on various factors, including the size of your boat, the water conditions in the area, and your personal preferences.

Beamless Boat Lifts

A beamless boat lift system uses cables or straps to lift the vessel out of the water. Moreover, these straps are attached to the lift mechanism that’s usually located on the dock or seawall. Beamless boat lifts are an excellent choice for a larger fishing boat because of their high weight capacity. Besides being easier to install than elevator boat lifts, beamless boat lifts require less modification to the dock or seawall.

However, this lift system may not be the best choice for areas with high waves or currents because they’re likely to sway or bounce.

Elevator Boat Lifts

An elevator boat lift uses a platform that lifts the vessel up and down. Like a beamless boat lift, its lift mechanism is typically located on the dock or seawall. However, instead of using straps or cables, it features a series of vertical tracks responsible for guiding the platform. Furthermore, elevator boat lift systems are ideal for fishing boats that don’t require a beamless boat lift’s high weight capacity. Since they provide a more stable platform for a fishing vessel, elevator boat lifts work best in areas with higher waves or currents.

However, it’s worth noting that elevator boat lifts are more complex and require more maintenance than beamless lift systems because they have more moving parts and may be exposed to more environmental factors.

Which Is the Better Choice?

Ultimately, the choice between a beamless boat lift and an elevator boat lift comes down to your individual needs and circumstances. A beamless boat lift system may be the best option if you have a larger fishing boat and are in an area with calm water conditions.

However, if you have a smaller boat or are in an area with higher waves or currents, you’ll want to install an elevator boat lift. It’s always a good idea to consult a professional to determine which type of system best fits your specific needs. 

wooden boat in need of a boat lift in cocoa beach

Looking for a High-Quality Boat Lift in Cocoa Beach?

Hurricane Boat Lifts design and build the highest quality and most attractive boat lift systems at affordable prices. Contact us today to learn more about our products.  

Dan Michels

Dan Michels is President of Hurricane Boat Lifts with 50+ years of engineering experience. He designs durable, high-performance boat lift systems and shares expert insights to help boat owners choose the right solutions.

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