A boat lift is a device that secures a boat above the water at a private boat dock or marina. Keeping your boat out of the water when it’s not in use can help protect it from wakes, storms, corrosion, marine growth and hull damage. 
A lift can also make boat ownership more convenient. You can keep your boat ready at the dock instead of launching it from a trailer before every outing. A canopy or roof can provide additional protection from sun, rain and debris.
But with several types of boat lifts available, how do you choose the right one? The answer depends on your boat, the location, water conditions and the type of dock or shoreline you have.
Types of Boat Lifts
The most common types of boat lifts include:
- Bottom-standing lifts
- Piling-mounted lifts
- Floating boat lifts
- Shore-mounted lifts
How to Select a Boat Lift
When choosing a boat lift, start with your boat’s size and weight. The lift’s lifting capacity must be high enough to support the boat, fuel, water and gear you typically carry.
You’ll also need to consider:
- Boat length and beam
- Water depth
- Whether you’re in shallow waters or deeper water
- Whether the bottom is firm or soft
- Water conditions and exposure to rough water
- Whether water levels fluctuate
Saltwater boaters should choose a boat lift system with corrosion-resistant materials and stainless steel fasteners. Local regulations and homeowner or marina policies may also affect which types of lifts you can install.
A professional installer can inspect your site and recommend a lift based on your boat and water conditions.
Bottom-Standing Lifts
A bottom-standing lift sits next to the boat dock and is supported by legs resting on the bottom. These boat lifts work well when the bottom is firm and relatively level and water depth is typically between two and nine feet.
Soft or uneven bottoms can make installation more difficult. Depending on the system, the boat may be raised manually, with an electric motor or with a hydraulic system.
In cold climates, bottom-standing lifts typically need to be removed from the water for winter and reinstalled in spring. This requires storage space and may require professional installation.
Piling-Mounted Lifts
Piling-mounted lifts attach directly to fixed docks or pilings. They require a strong dock or piling structure capable of supporting both the lift and boat.
In some locations, new pilings may need to be installed, which can increase the cost. However, these lifts are less dependent on the bottom conditions or water depth than bottom-standing lifts.
Most piling-mounted lifts use electric power and are a good option for waterfront properties with permanent dock structures.
Floating Boat Lifts
Floating boat lifts support a boat on air-filled metal or plastic chambers. The chambers are flooded to lower the lift below the water. When you return, the boat is positioned over the lift, and pumps force air into the chambers to raise the boat above the water.
Floating boat lifts are often used with floating docks, in marinas and in areas with fluctuating water levels. Because the lift remains in the water, its components can be exposed to marine growth and may require occasional cleaning.
Shore-Mounted Lifts
A shore-mounted lift uses a ramp that extends from the shoreline into the water. You drive the boat onto the ramp, then use a winch and line to pull it up and out of the water.
This type of lift works best on shorelines that gradually slope into the water. Shore-mounted lifts can be relatively simple and inexpensive to install and maintain.
Conclusion
Choosing the right boat lift starts with understanding your boat and your waterfront. Consider the boat’s size and weight, lifting capacity, water depth, bottom conditions, dock structure and whether water levels fluctuate.
The right boat lift system can make storing and accessing your boat easier while protecting your boat from damage and reducing exposure to marine growth. If you’re unsure which option is best, a professional boat lift installer can help you compare the types of boat lifts suited to your property.
Boat Lift Q&A
Q: What is a boat lift?
A: A boat lift is a system designed to raise and secure a boat above the water when it’s not in use. Boat lifts can help protect boats from corrosion, marine growth, hull damage and rough water.
Q: What are the different types of boat lifts?
A: The main types of boat lifts are bottom-standing, piling-mounted, floating and shore-mounted lifts. The best option depends on your boat, water depth, dock structure and water conditions.
Q: How do I choose the right boat lift?
A: Consider your boat’s size and weight, required lifting capacity, water depth, bottom conditions and dock or shoreline structure. A professional installer can also recommend the right lift for your location and boat.
Originally published in January 2020. Updated in August 2026.
