Pontoons and Tritoons are becoming increasingly popular due to the space and relaxing ride they provide. Although all boat lifts are designed to raise boats out of the water, some boat lifts may not accommodate pontoon boats due to differences in it’s hull shape compared to traditional V-shaped boats. In addition, a regular boat lift design may not accommodate the width and depth of wider boats. Therefore, you should keep a few things in mind when shopping for a pontoon boat lift.
What Type of Boat Lift Do You Need for a Pontoon or Tritoon?
The physical distinction between traditional deck boats and pontoons is the shape and function of the hull. Typically the hull of a deck boat is V-shaped, while a pontoon’s design has the boat lying flat on the water. Pontoons balance on two or three hollow aluminum tubes called toons. A pontoon’s flat deck and hull provide stability on top of the water by easily resisting side-to-side rocking that traditional deck boats often encounter. Due to the different shape of a pontoon, you’ll need to carefully choose your boat lift.
With a standard V-hull, the boat rests on a single set of bunks which attach to the boat lift cradle at an angle and support each side of the hull. Whereas, a pontoon boat requires two to three sets of bunks to support each of the vessel’s toons. Boat lifts for pontoons also require larger dimensions. The proper lift will need to be able to support the design, structure and weight of this wider boat.
Choosing a boat lift that properly fits your pontoon or tritoon boat is essential. The ideal option is a boat lift made specifically to fit pontoon and tritoons. A pontoon boat lift that features adjustable width bunks is even more desirable, because the lift adjusts exactly to your boat’s width. RGC’s FLEX Hydraulic Boat lift features this type of adjustability and has upgraded standard options.
Additionally, as with any type of lift, you also need to take into consideration the environmental factors where the lift will be installed. First off, you should determine if the bottom is firm and even. Second, find out the water depth and whether there are fluctuations in this water level throughout the year. Finally, make note if you’re in a climate where the water can freeze. Other things you should consider are space limitations, speed into the water and budget. Check out our “How to choose you boat lift” page for more tips on choosing the right lift for you. Consider consulting an authorized boat lift dealer who can survey your waterfront. In addition, dealers can offer expert advise on which lift will work best for your boat and property.
Can I Convert My Existing Boat Lift to Fit My Pontoon?
It’s ideal to store your pontoon boat on a lift rather than just docking it in the water. A boat lift can prevent damage and corrosion. Additionally, this helps keep your boat clean and allows you to easily keep it maintained. Because pontoons and tritoons are larger, heavier and shaped differently than V-hull boats, you may or may not be able to convert your existing lift to accommodate a pontoon.
First, you’ll need to check the weight capacity of your existing lift. Second, you will have to determine exact dimensions and weight of your pontoon. If your new vessel fits the capacity of your existing lift, then you can check and see if the manufacturer offers a pontoon conversion kit. The conversion kit will allow it to safely house your new boat. Seeking the expertise of an authorized boat lift dealer can ensure that your existing boat hoist can safely lift your pontoon.
RGC provides bunk systems that work with our hydraulic vertical lift and vertical lifts to outfit a pontoon or tritoon. These conversion kits are designed specifically to fit and cradle pontoon boats just right. If you need assistance determining the right type of lift for your vessel, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
To learn more and get all the details about RGC pontoon and tritoon lifts, visit our Pontoon Boat Lift page.
