Hoists

Our Boat Hoist Services:

Waters Edge Dock & Hoist delivers expert lakeside services for Michigan waterfronts, specializing in boat hoists and lifts. From Cantilever and Vertical lifts to personal watercraft and heavy-duty deep-water hoists, we supply, install, and maintain solutions built for safety, reliability, and lasting performance. Enjoy your time on the lake with a dock system and lift you can trust.

For our residential, commercial and custom boat lifts, call or office for sales and service. (517) 294-7476

New Boat Hoist

Waters Edge Dock & Hoist provides new boat lifts and hoists along with expert installation and dock construction services. Our team delivers safe, durable, and reliable waterfront solutions so you can enjoy the lake with ease.

Boat Hoist Install Services

When you purchase a boat lift from us, professional installation is part of the process. Our team typically assembles the hoist right on-site to ensure every component is properly fitted and adjusted for your specific shoreline, boat and water conditions.

High Capacity Lifts

Have an extra large boat to lift? We supply Golden Boat Lifts as our heavy-duty, deep water solution for higher capacity boats. A four- post Golden Lift has the capacity to handle 30,000 pounds. We’ll help fit you with the best solution for your needs.

Boat Lift Repair Service

Even with proper maintenance, boat lifts can occasionally require service or repair. To ensure fast, efficient support, our team is equipped with a fully outfitted mobile service unit, allowing us to handle most repairs directly on-site. We only service what we sell.

How do I know what size boat lift I need?

The size of boat lift you need depends on the size and weight of your boat, as well as the local water conditions. You should also consider the shape of your boat and whether it has an in or outboard motor. Beam, dry weight, length and wet weight, on top of water conditions and water depth can determine what size of boat lift you need. It’s best to contact one of our experts to make sure you have the best boat lift for those requirements. For more commonly asked questions about boat lifts and hoists, see below.

Boat Hoist Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right size boat lift?

Choose a lift based on your boat’s total wet weight (boat + fuel + gear).
Always select a lift rated slightly higher than your boat’s weight to allow
for added equipment and long-term safety.

How deep does the water need to be for a boat lift?

Water depth must accommodate your boat’s draft plus additional clearance.
Most lifts require at least 12–18 inches of extra depth below the hull to
operate safely.

Can I install a boat lift myself?

Smaller freestanding lifts can be installed by experienced DIYers.
Larger hydraulic or permanent dock lifts typically require professional
installation for safety and proper alignment.

What maintenance does a boat lift require?

Routine maintenance includes inspecting cables, lubricating pulleys,
checking motors or hydraulics, and rinsing components to prevent corrosion.
Annual professional inspections are recommended.

Are boat lifts safe to use?

Yes — when properly installed and operated. Always center the boat,
never exceed weight capacity, inspect components regularly, and keep
hands clear of moving parts during operation.

What is the best boat lift?

The best boat lift is one that is properly matched to your boat’s size, weight,
and specific water conditions. A premium lift should be engineered for strength,
durability, and long-term performance. That’s why many boat owners choose
Great Lakes Lift — known for building robust, corrosion-resistant lifts using
high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh marine environments and
weathered conditions for years of dependable use.