Posted on May 1, 2025

How to Install a Jet Ski Lift and Floating Jet Ski Dock

How to Install a Jet Ski Lift and Floating Jet Ski Dock

Written by HydroHoist Marketing

Between the precision required to maneuver at crowded launch sites, the challenge of battling unfavorable conditions, and potential impeller damage from launching in shallow water, there are numerous ways trailering your jet ski can take the fun out of the ride. But you probably already know that. That’s why you’re leaning towards investing in the convenience that floating jet ski docks provide. 

Below, we walk you through the primary installation considerations and how to choose the optimal solution for your needs. 

What You Need Before You Start Installation

Here’s a rundown of the primary considerations to help you streamline the jet ski floating dock selection and installation process: 

 

  • Space Requirements: Floating jet ski docks require sufficient space for safe installation and operation. Check your available waterfront setup and ensure you have enough space to maneuver the PWC on and off the port, with ample clearance from nearby vessels, piers, and other obstructions. 
  • Dock System Integration: PWC docks can have varying mounting options. Check with the dealer if you need additional hardware or modifications to integrate the jet ski port into your existing setup. For reference, HydroHoist drive-on docks provide mounting options from the sides and the front, making them seamless additions to most docking systems and slip configurations.
  • Water Depth: Most floating jet ski docks require at least 12 to 18 inches of water depth to function properly. If the area is too shallow, you may need to reposition the dock or dredge the bottom. Authorized dealers can help you determine if a floating dock suits your specific waterfront conditions. 

 

Different PWC dock models and mounting hardware will require different sets of tools. To give you an idea of what you might need, installing the HydroHoist Epic requires the following tools:

 

  • 1/2” Drive ratchet (minimum 9-inch handle length for leverage)
  •  Electric drill
  •  Drill bits
  •  Deep well sockets
  •  Open-end or combination wrenches
  •  #2 Phillips Screwdriver
  •  Drift Pin or other hole aligning tool
  •  5/32 Hex Key
  •  J-Hook Connecting Kit Tool
  •  Large Hammer 
  •  Knife or cutting tool
  •  Measuring tape

 

Depending on your dock system, other tools may also be required. 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Jet Ski Lift Installation

Installation procedures can vary significantly depending on the specific make and model of the floating jet ski lift. Always refer to the product's instruction manual for detailed guidelines. For reference, below are the instructions for assembling and installing the popular HydroHoist jet ski dock – the HydroPort Epic:

 

1. Bow Stop:

  • Screw the Bow Stop into the HP Epic body. 

 

2. Wheel Assembly:

  • Slide the axle retainer on one end of the axle. 
  • Slide one spacer onto the axle and through the wheel. 
  • Add two more spacers onto the axle and insert the axle retainer onto the axle to complete the wheel assembly. 

 

3. Wheel Placement: 

  • Snap the wheel assembly into the body axle cavities. There are several axle locations provided, allowing you to custom-fit the port to your jet ski. However, due to the differences between PWC models and hull designs, it may take some trial and error to determine the optimal location for each wheel. 

 

4. Mooring Cavities:

  • Place the cap plug into the mooring cavity.
  • Insert the screws through the cap plug into the threaded insert in the body and tighten them until snug. 

 

5. Attaching the HP Epic to a floating dock:

  • Place the lock washer and the washer on both bolts. 
  • Insert the mooring plug into the mooring cavity. 
  • Hook the mooring bracket into the mooring cavity on the underside of the body. 
  • Pivot the bracket up to the body. You may need a hammer/rubber mallet to tap the bracket into place. 
  • Insert the bolt and washers into the mooring plug and tighten until the bracket is snug against the body. Again, be mindful of overtightening. 
  • Drill four 3/8” holes into the dock face and attach the extended hinge mooring plate. 

 

On average, the HydroPort Epic takes four man-hours (or two people working two hours each) to assemble.

Tips for a Smooth PWC Lift Installation Experience

If it’s your first time assembling and installing a PWC lift, we strongly recommend hiring a professional. While it may add to the upfront costs, professional installation ensures everything is done correctly, safely, and within local regulations. 

 

With that said, here are some tips and best practices to keep in mind:

  • Work With A Buddy: If you choose to go the DIY route, having an extra pair of hands (and eyes) can significantly speed up the process and help ensure precision, especially during alignment and mounting.
  • Check The Weather: Choose a day with favorable weather conditions when installing the PWC dock to avoid complications from wind, rain, or rough water. 
  • Plan for Future Adjustments: When anchoring your PWC port, leave room for potential adjustments and modifications. Waterfront conditions like tides or shoreline shifts may require periodic adjustments to your setup.

 

Finally, check if your area has any permitting requirements or restrictions for installing PWC docks. In Florida, for example, you will likely need a permit to install floating vessel platforms and boat lifts in or over navigable areas (Florida Department of Environmental Protection, n.d.). Conversely, Michigan does not require a permit for a seasonal dock or boat hoist that is removed at the end of the boating season (State of Michigan, n.d.).

How to Choose the Right Jet Ski Dock or Lift for Your Needs

Make sure the jet ski lift is rated to support the dimensions, weight, and hull design of your PWC. For reference, the average jet ski weighs around 850 lbs, with lighter models like the Yamaha SuperJet coming in at around 306 lbs. On the heavier side of the scale, the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX weighs in at around 1,073 lbs (Best Boat Report, 2021). 

Maintenance After Installation: What to Know

Premium jet ski floating docks like those offered by HydroHoist are designed to protect PWCs year-round, even in less-than-ideal conditions. However, we still recommend removing the port from the water during the offseason, especially in regions with harsh winters. Even in moderate climates without freezing conditions, winter storms can bring high winds, fluctuating water levels, and heavy rain and snowfall that can stress the PWC dock’s different components. 

Real User Insights – What First-Time Installers Wish They Knew

As with everything, everyone will have their individual preferences. For instance, while some owners prefer the protection and security of jet ski lifts, others value how drive-on docks allow them to quickly launch and retrieve their PWCs (The Hull Truth, 2022). We recommend exploring as many options as possible in person to get a better idea of what works best for your unique lifestyle, waterfront setup, and personal preferences. 

Why Choose HydroHoist for PWC Lifts and Floating Docks

At HydroHoist, we offer PWC floating docks with weight ratings ranging from 1,150 lbs to 2,000 lbs. These premium jet ski drive-on ports are constructed from ultra-tough polyethylene with expanded polystyrene (EPS) marine foam for increased strength and leak elimination. They feature universal hull support and adjustable, dual in-line rollers for enhanced compatibility. 

 

If you prefer to completely lift the PWC out of the water when not in use, we also offer customizable bunks, cradle beams, and keel supports for our UltraLift hydropneumatic boat lift systems to accommodate different jet ski sizes and hull styles. 

Ready to Start Your Installation? Contact Our Experts Today

Since introducing the first hydropneumatic boat lift in 1964, HydroHoist has continued to innovate premium solutions for protecting vessels of all sizes, from power cruisers and pontoons to tow boats and jet skis. With the enduring popularity of Jet Skis, WaveRunners, and SeaDoos, our engineers developed docking solutions that not only protect PWCs but also enhance ownership experiences by offering the easiest load and launch in the industry. 

 

Contact us today to learn more about the best protection for PWCs or to find authorized HydroHoist boat lift dealers near you.

FAQs

  • Can I install a jet ski dock without professional help?

Yes, you can. Modern PWC docking solutions like those from HydroHoist are designed for the utmost ease of ownership. However, any product damage or malfunction resulting from improper handling and installation may void applicable warranties. 

  • What type of anchoring system works best for floating jet ski docks?

The optimal anchoring system will depend on factors such as water depth, bottom conditions, and dock size. For instance, while deadweight anchors may suffice for areas with stable conditions, a pole and sleeve anchoring system may be required for windy areas with high waves. 

When shopping for jet ski docks, always discuss your unique waterfront conditions with the dealer. These local experts can assess your shoreline characteristics and dock setup and recommend the appropriate solutions accordingly. 

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