Wrestling with a heavy outboard motor is back-breaking work. It ruins a great day on the water. Many boaters hate the stressful chore of removing the engine just to store their dinghy safely.
SeaWise Marine offers the perfect solution. Our patented boat davit systems let your motor stay attached and upright at all times. By stopping the heavy lifting, we make boating safer and more fun for everyone, from seasoned captains to young grandkids.
How to Store a Dinghy with the Motor On
What is the best way to store a dinghy with the motor on?
The best way to store a dinghy with the motor attached is by using a vertical-rotation davit system. SeaWise uses patented technology to keep the engine upright while the tender is lifted. This design reclaims your swim platform and uses 316L marine-grade stainless steel for maximum rust resistance.
Why Removing Outboards is a Stressful Chore
If you boat in the Salish Sea or the Great Lakes, moving a motor is a major headache. The biggest problems include:
- Physical Strain: Lifting a 90lb+ motor can cause serious back injuries.
- Safety Risks: Balancing an outboard on a wet swim step while waves crash is dangerous. It goes against basic marine health and safety regulations.
- Time Wasted: You should not waste 20 minutes at a beautiful anchorage just setting up your boat. You want to be able to launch your dinghy in seconds.
- Storage Mess: Gas cans clutter your deck. Lying motors flat can also cause messy oil leaks inside your boat.
The SeaWise Solution: Patented Vertical Rotation
Since 1987, SeaWise Marine has led the industry in dinghy lift technology. We fix the outboard problem using a unique vertical rotation design. Most old davits store boats flat or make you take the engine off. Our system rolls the dinghy from a flat position in the water to a vertical standing position against the transom.
Safety is our top priority. If you watch our video showing you how to operate your davit system, you will see our self-braking winch. It stops the handle from spinning backward. We also use a safety locking pin. This stops accidental drops while you are driving. Because the motor stays on, you are always “Ready to Launch.”
Manual vs. Electric: Choosing Your Lifting Power
We build two main systems to fit your boat. If you are not sure which one you need, read our guide on how to determine the right davit size. You can also read our full breakdown of electric vs. manual davits.
| Feature | Manual Boat Davit | Electric Davit System |
| Lifting Capacity | Up to 450 lbs | Standard 600 lbs (Fortified to 800 lbs) |
| Power Needed | None (Hand-Crank) | 12V DC Battery Power |
| Mechanical Edge | 25:1 worm gear reduction | Push-button automation |
| Best For | Mid-sized vessels & trawlers | Heavy center-console tenders |
Big Benefits Beyond Saving Your Back
Our systems do more than just save you from lifting heavy motors.
1. Reclaiming the Swim Platform
Vertical storage puts the dinghy on its side. This keeps your back “patio” completely clear. You can swim, fish, or load guests without tripping over a big rubber boat.
2. Reducing Moorage Costs
Old davits stick out 4 to 5 feet past your boat. This extra length can force you to pay for a bigger marina slip. SeaWise holds the tender tight against your boat. This reduces your boat’s total length (LOA) and saves you money. This is a huge benefit whether you need a davit system in Seattle or are looking for Toronto boat davits.
3. All-Weather Durability
Every part is made from premium stainless steel. We use a special polishing process to remove dirt from the metal. This makes a mirror finish that will not rust in saltwater.
(Note: If you are having issues with your tender’s steering rusting, we also make a permanent seized steering cable fix!)
Engineered for Your Specific Boat Brand
We make custom mounting brackets so the system looks like it came from the factory. We are even a trusted factory option for brands like Lindell Yachts. You can see photos of our perfect fits in our Gallery.
We fit all major brands, including:
- Express Cruisers: Sea Ray, Bayliner, Meridian, Chaparral, Regal.
- Trawlers & Tugs: Ranger Tugs, Cutwater, Nordic Tugs, Grand Banks.
- Inflatables: Zodiac, Highfield, AB Inflatables.
Installation and Lifetime Support
Getting a new system is easy. Our kits come with great manuals. Many people ask, “Can I install a SeaWise davit myself?” Yes, you can!
If you want a professional to do the work, we have authorized area reps and trusted dealers like Nic Stark at Annapolis Inflatables ready to help on the East Coast, Great Lakes, and Pacific Northwest.
We follow the “SeaWise Standard.” You get an industry-leading 5-year warranty and tech support 7 days a week. Read what our happy clients say about our service, or learn more about SeaWise and our 35 years of history.
Stop Lifting. Start Boating.
Boating should be fun, not a workout. A SeaWise lift is a smart investment that makes your time on the water safe and easy.
Ready to upgrade your boat? Contact us today for a free quote.
- Phone: (604) 946-0551
- Toll-Free: 1-866-SEA-WISE (732-9473)
- Email: derek@seawisemarine.com
