Docking your pontoon on a lift can reduce damage and maintenance on your vessel, and it can make towing or traveling with your boat easier. There are a few extra steps involved when using pontoon boat lifts, but the process is quite seamless once you get it down. Use this guide to learn more about pontoons and how to dock your watercraft properly.

Types of Pontoon Boat Lifts

The two main options for pontoon boat lifts are bunks and drive-on trailers. Bunk lifts feature multiple sets of boards that the boats rest on. The bunks can then be lifted above the water using hydraulics or a mechanical system. Drive-on trailers also have multiple support structures underneath, and the boat must align with the bottom of the trailer before gliding onto it. Once the boat is secured to the trailer, the towing vehicle can pull it out of the water. 

Tips for Docking a Pontoon Boat on a Lift

No matter what type of lift you choose, you need to be able to carefully guide the boat into its desired parking space. Make sure the lift or trailer is in the water at the dock and low enough for the pontoons to fit over the boards. Go slow as you approach the dock. Carefully line up with the lift, and take into account the wind or current that could cause movement in one direction.

Many lifts designed for pontoon boats have guides that indicate where the vessel should go. Stand toward the front of the boat or have a helper do so as you steer to provide extra visibility as you match the toons up with the guides. You can come to a slow crawl as you approach the lift to fully line up the boat with the lift, but don't come to a complete stop.

If you’re looking for a pontoon boat lift, reach out to MJ Dock & Lift Services in Stone Lake, WI. This family-owned and -operated company offers a wide array of boat storage solutions, from lifts to custom docks. They even transport and install certain solutions to provide an easy solution for boaters throughout Sawyer County. They work with trusted brands, including Badger Docks and Lifts, DH Docks and Tracks, and EZ Dock®. Visit the website to see a full list of services, or call (715) 415-4701 to request more information on pontoon boat lifts.