Skip to content 
Perhaps you’ve heard a lot of good things about an elevator lift in Stuart and are considering adding one to your waterfront property. Before deciding to make a purchase, it’s best to understand whether installing this boat lift system is actually necessary. We’ve compiled the information you need to make an educated decision.
Elevator Boat Lift Facts You Should Know
What Is an Elevator Boat Lift?
Standard boat lift systems are typically built off a dock. In most cases, the vessel rests on a cradle suspended between a set of pilings driven into the seafloor. However, standard cradle lift installations aren’t possible in narrow canals or places where the seafloor isn’t ideal for supporting filings. Likewise, such installations won’t work in areas where regulations limit the distance between the seawall and a structure’s protrusion.
In such cases, an elevator boat lift is the best option. You can mount this system directly to the seawall or a single row of pilings. Although the process of installing an elevator boat lift differs from its standard counterpart, it offers the same function and purpose. It allows your boat to rest on top of bunk boards supported by beams and attached to a cradle.
If you’re ready to set sail, you’ll only need to lower the cradle with a press of a button until the bunk boards are entirely submerged, and your vessel floats freely. If you’re looking to dock your boat, position your boat above the bunk boards before raising the beams.
Why Should I Choose an Elevator Boat Lift?
It Eliminates the Need for Outdoor Pilings
Some areas have restricted waterfronts that prohibit the use of outboard pilings. An elevator boat lift system may be the perfect choice if you use your boat in places where canals are narrow, or the surface beneath the water is too hard for pilings to be driven into the ground. In other words, the elevator boat lift system takes the place of outboard pilings.
It Protects the Bottom of Your Boat
If you keep your boat tied to the dock, you’ll have to brace yourself for frequent paint jobs because the water will slowly wear away the paint on the bottom of your vessel. Since an elevator boat lift gets your boat out of the water, it keeps your hull clean and safe. Unless you’re willing to run the risk of reducing your boat’s value, it’s best to prevent paint damage by installing an elevator boat lift system.
You’ll Save Money on Storage Space
Although the cost of storing a boat varies in different parts of the country, it’s generally based according to the vessel’s size. You may have to spend somewhere between $20 to $50 per foot of boat for outdoor storage and $50 and $200 per foot for indoor storage per season.
Since installing an elevator boat lift system allows your boat to reside safely on the lift when it’s not in use, you can save money on storage, wrapping, and winterizing costs. Best of all, your boat will always be available for launching all year.
It Keeps Your Boat Safe
Various unpredictable factors can cause considerable damage to an untended boat. Besides protecting your prized possession from damage from storms, an elevator boat lift system won’t make it an easy target for thieves and vandals.
It Requires Minimal Maintenance
Once your elevator boat lift system is set in place, it will serve you well all year round without requiring much maintenance. Although some people may overestimate its installation costs, they’re surprised to find out that the cost of investing in one is made up within five years.
Looking for a Quality Elevator Lift in Stuart?
At Hurricane Boat Lifts, we design and build the highest quality and most attractive boat lifts at affordable prices. Contact us today to find a dealer or an installer!
