Most boat damage isn’t the dramatic stuff — no collisions, no capsizing. It’s the slow, steady grind of sitting in the water too long. Our insurance specialists hear about it all the time:
* Algae growth
* Barnacles
* Hull blisters
* Salt corrosion
* Bumping the dock in high winds or waves

Keeping your boat out of the water when you’re not using it eliminates most of these risks — and as a bonus, launching is faster and easier when you’re ready to go.

Choosing the Right Lift

Your dock setup will usually point you in the right direction:
* Floating lifts — Best for deep water, rapid drop-offs, and locations with fluctuating water levels
* Bottom-standing lifts — A solid choice for fixed docks in shallow water, and they handle cold winters well
* Suspended hoist lifts — Good all-around option for average water depths

Other Things to Check Before You Buy

* Can the lift handle your boat’s full weight — gear, fuel, and all?
* Are there marina rules, HOA restrictions, or local permits required?
* Is there enough clearance to lift the boat, especially if you’re under a covered dock?
* Can your dock structure actually support the combined weight of the lift and boat?
* Is electricity available if you’re going with a powered lift?

One More Thing — Your Coverage

A boat lift is a real investment, and it’s worth making sure your insurance reflects that. If you’ve added a lift recently, it may affect your liability coverage or your overall policy. Contact Global Marine Insurance to make sure you’re covered, or get a quick quote here.