When it comes to docking solutions for jet skis, two popular options often emerge: platforms, lift docks and drive-on docks. Each has its own benefits for a business or marina depending on the requirements that are present in each location. In this article, you will be able to learn the differences between lift docks and drive-on docks for jet skis and which one is better for your business. When making these decisions, it is crucial to engage the right floating dock manufacturer to provide the best quality dock that fits your operations.
Functionality of Lift Docks
Lift docks for jet skis are built to provide a mechanical lift to the water crafts and lift them out of water. Such systems may be manual, hydraulic or electrical depending on the size of the operation being conducted. Lift docks are most appropriate for long term uses and effectively prevent any contact with water as it elevates the jet ski off the water.
Lift docks are therefore perfect for businesses that concentrate on avoiding water damage to their jet skis. These docks protect the jet skis from rusting, algae formation, and general wear that is brought about by exposure to salt water or fresh water. In addition, they are ideal for marinas that are established in areas with changing water levels or currents since the flotation mechanism guarantees that the watercraft is safely raised off the water.
Benefits of Drive-On Docks
Drive-on docks are meant to provide the user with the possibility to drive the jet ski directly onto a floating dock. When the jet ski is tied to the dock it stays off the water which means that the hull does not remain submerged for long. Drive-on docks are simple to use and are very efficient for businesses that rent out a large number of boats or where jet skis are used frequently.
The main advantage of a floating jet ski dock is that it is easy to install. Compared to lift docks, there are no mechanical parts that need to be fixed or replaced, which makes it a low maintenance option. Drive-on docks come in sections and therefore can be added to or changed to suit the size of a business from a small jet ski rental to a large marina.
Hence, for businesses that need versatility, drive-on docks are usually cheaper and easier to implement as compared to lift docks. These docks can also be used in conjunction with other floating platforms which makes it easier for business to have a more complex platform for accommodating more than one watercraft.
Maintenance and Durability
When it comes to comparing the maintenance of lift docks and drive-on docks, the latter is more favorable since the docks’ design is less complicated. Lift docks as you have seen are very effective for long-term protection but they are made of mechanical parts that need to be serviced. For instance, hydraulic or electric lifts may require regular inspections to ascertain that they are in good working condition and that they will not develop some mechanical problems in the future.
On the other hand, floating solutions for the jet ski dock do not need much maintenance at all. These docks are manufactured using high density polyethylene (HDPE) making them immune to rust, ultraviolet light and other factors that cause degradation. Their maintenance usually does not require much more than occasional washing.
It is important to select a good floating dock manufacturer in order to achieve long service life of either type of dock system. Choosing high quality and durable materials and construction will help minimize future maintenance costs which can translate to a big difference in your operations.
Installation Considerations
The installation of lift docks as well as the drive-on docks can be done in different ways. Lift docks can be installed by the do it yourself method but most of the time they need professional help especially when they come with hydraulic or electrical systems. This can be more costly and time consuming initially, especially when your business is situated in an area that has certain legal or environmental conditions.
On the other hand, drive-on docks are relatively easier to install as compared to the other types. They are more flexible in their design and construction and can be pre-fabricated and installed on site with minimal need for complex equipment. This is especially relevant for those companies that require an immediate and efficient solution. While working with a floating dock manufacturer that offers a choice of options for the products, the drive-on docks can be easily adapted to meet your requirements without having to spend a lot of money on installation.
Cost Comparison
From an investment point of view, lift docks are more expensive than other forms of docks because of the mechanical processes involved in the operation of the lift docks. This may be justified by the fact that it may be cheaper to have the extra protection in the long run especially if the business owns high value jet skis. But the costs of its maintenance and possible repairs should also be taken into consideration when it comes to the expenses.
As a rule, drive-on docks are less expensive in terms of the initial investment and the cost of maintenance. Due to their simple construction and their ability to be easily expanded, they are used by marinas, resorts, and jet ski rental companies. Furthermore, they do not have any intricate mechanical parts which makes their total cost of ownership to be low in the long run.
Drive-on docks are usually favored by companies that own many jet skis or that offer rental services to their clients. They afford easy access to the watercraft; are easy to install and do not demand much maintenance hence lower operational costs.
Comparing lift docks and drive-on docks for jet skis, both have the pros and cons according to the company’s business model and operations. Lift docks are perfect for companies that need to offer maximum protection to the boats in the long run but are relatively costly and need constant maintenance. On the other hand, floating jet ski dock solutions such as drive on docks are cheaper, easy to maintain and can be apt for businesses that frequently require access to their watercraft.
Working with a reputable floating dock manufacturer means that the selected dock system, whether a lift or drive-on, is durable and meets your requirements. Thus, considering your operational needs, your budget, and your vision for the future, you will be able to select the right docking solution that will benefit your enterprise.