As the proud owner of a floating boat lift at Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, I can attest to the benefits of this investment. With the ability to easily lift my boat out of the water and onto the dock, I no longer have to worry about the effects of constant water exposure on my vessel. Not only does this save on maintenance and repair costs, but it also extends the lifespan of my boat. Plus, the convenience of quickly and easily accessing my boat without having to launch it each time has made boating even more enjoyable. If you’re wondering whether boat lifts are worth the investment, I highly recommend one!
What Are Boat Lifts?
Boat lifts are an excellent accessory for individuals who own boats in the Midwestern region of the United States. The region is home to numerous lakes, rivers, and waterways, which attract boating enthusiasts all year round. However, these waters are not always calm, and boaters risk damage to their boats if they do not take the necessary precautions.
Boat lifts are a type of equipment that allows boat owners to dock their boats out of the water when they are not in use. They come in various sizes and types, depending on the size and weight of the boat. Some boat lifts use a system of cables, pulleys, and motors to lift boats out of the water and onto a dock or pier. The one I purchased is called a “floating boat lift,” which I purchased from LOTO Lift in Camdenton, MO. It is based on a pneumatic system where a pump sends air into 2 large tanks to lift the apparatus from the water.
The Benefits of Boat Lifts
One of the primary benefits of using boat lifts is that they protect boats from damage caused by exposure to water, especially in harsh weather conditions. Water can corrode the hull, engine, and other parts of the boat, leading to costly repairs and replacements. Boat lifts keep boats dry and help prolong their lifespan.
Moreover, boat lifts also offer convenience to boat owners. Instead of having to trailer their boats to and from the launch ramp every time they want to use them, they can simply use the boat lift to lower their boats into the water when they are ready to go boating. This saves time and effort and makes boating more enjoyable.
Are Boat Lifts a Good Investment?
Boat lifts are also an excellent investment for individuals who live on the water. They increase the value of waterfront properties since they are a desirable feature for potential buyers. Additionally, boat lifts can save money in the long run by reducing the need for costly maintenance and repairs due to water damage.
Choosing the Right Boat Lifting System
When choosing a boat lift, it is essential to consider various factors, such as the size and weight of the boat, the water depth, and the type of dock or pier. There are various types of boat lifts, such as floating lifts (as mentioned above), vertical lifts, cantilever lifts, and hydraulic lifts, each with its unique features and benefits.
Vertical lifts are the most common type and can be suitable for boats of various sizes and weights. They use a system of pulleys and cables to lift the boat vertically out of the water and onto the dock or pier. Cantilever lifts are ideal for smaller boats and use a system of levers to lift the boat out of the water. Hydraulic lifts are the most expensive but are also the most efficient and can lift heavier boats. For me, I love the simplicity of my floating boat lift. I didn’t need to modify my dock, and it was installed neatly right into one of the slips.
My Conclusion
I conclude that boat lifts are (nearly) an essential accessory for boat owners in the Midwest! They offer numerous benefits, such as protecting boats from water damage, providing convenience, and increasing the value of waterfront properties.
When choosing a boat lift, it is important to consider various factors and select the type that best suits your needs and budget. With a boat lift, you can rest assured that your boat is safe, dry, and ready for your next boating adventure.
I highly recommend the friendly people at LOTO Lift in Camdenton and Rocky Mount, MO. Not only are they knowledgable and reputable, they are also just good people that I believe you’ll enjoy meeting and working with.
~ Contributor, Jose R.
