Boat lift installation and repair in Stuart, FL
Boat lift installation and repair in Stuart and Martin County, FL. Get matched with a licensed marine contractor for new lifts, motors, cables and posts.
Keeping a boat out of the water between trips cuts down on growth on the hull and wear from tides and weather. A boat lift is a big part of that, but it also takes a beating in salt water and needs the right setup to work well.
Types of boat lifts
- Cradle lifts raise the boat on a frame under the hull. They are common for larger boats.
- Hanging or beam lifts use cables and straps to hold the boat from above.
- Floating lifts and jet ski lifts suit smaller boats and shallower water.
The right one depends on the weight and shape of your boat, the water depth and the dock you have.
What to check before buying
- The weight of the boat when loaded with fuel and gear, not just the dry weight
- Water depth at low tide
- Whether your dock or piling can carry the added load
- Power available at the dock for the motor
Common repairs
Most lift trouble comes from a few places: worn cables or straps, a failed motor or switch, corroded hardware, and bent or loose posts. If your lift is slow, uneven, or makes noise, get it checked before it drops a boat. Regular service is usually cheaper than an emergency.
Permits
Work on a seawall or dock in Florida usually needs a permit. In Martin County that often means a county or city building permit, and in some towns the local government issues its own. Many projects also need authorization from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and some need the US Army Corps of Engineers as well. What applies depends on the waterway, the size of the job and whether you are replacing in place or building new. A licensed marine contractor knows which ones apply and files them, so you do not have to sort it out alone.
New lifts are often covered by dock permits, and in some places a lift needs to be listed on the permit. Ask the contractor whether yours is covered.
What it costs
Price varies widely with lift type, lifting capacity and installation conditions. A small jet ski lift costs far less than a large cradle lift for a big boat. Repairs depend on what failed. Get an estimate that names the capacity and the parts.
Lifts attach to or sit near the dock, so see dock repair and building too.
Related services
We refer homeowners in Stuart, Jensen Beach, Palm City, Sewall's Point, Port Salerno, Hobe Sound, and the rest of Martin County.