Bow Guides for Docking
Align perfectly. Protect your hull. Dock with confidence—every time.
The HydroHoist® Bow Guide helps line up your vessel on the first try, reducing rub, misalignment, and stressful re-approaches. Built from heavy-duty, UV-resistant materials, it cushions the bow on contact and steers your boat into the ideal lift position—protecting gel coat, hardware, and dock alike.
Why Add a Bow Guide?
Faster, cleaner docking – Guides the bow into the lift sweet spot with minimal throttle and correction.
Hull + dock protection – Cushioned contact surface helps prevent dock rash and gel-coat scuffs.
Confidence in tough conditions – Stabilizes approach in wind, current, or tight slips.
Low maintenance, long life – UV-resistant, marine-grade construction stands up to seasons of use.
Simple retrofit – Installs quickly with included stainless/marine-grade hardware; fits most HydroHoist lifts.
Best For
Windy or high-traffic marinas where precise approaches are tricky
Newer boaters who want more forgiveness while learning a slip
Tight configurations (U-shaped or narrow slips) that demand accuracy
Premium finishes (wake/surf, cruisers, tritoons) where gel-coat care matters
Technical Specifications
Material: UV-protected black polyethylene
Width: 25.729 in (65.35 cm)
Height: 13.473 in (34.22 cm)
Max Thickness: 6.0 in (15.24 cm)
Note: Actual fitment can vary by bunk layout and bow profile. Your HydroHoist dealer will confirm the ideal placement and hardware set for your lift model.
Installation & Compatibility
Compatible With: Most HydroHoist® UltraLift® and Front Mount configurations (and commonly paired with Centering Guides for full-length guidance).
Install Time: Typically under an hour with common dock tools.
Included: Bow Guide assembly + marine-grade hardware + placement guidance.
Dealer Support: Authorized HydroHoist® dealers can install, adjust, and test for your specific hull and slip.
Pro Tips (Performance + Safety)
Pair with Centering Guides for bow-to-stern alignment help in crosswinds.
Tune for your hull angle—slight vertical adjustments can reduce bounce on approach.
Keep speeds idle-low—let the Bow Guide do the steering; avoid hard throttle on contact.
FAQs Bow Guide
Can I use this on a floating dock?
Yes. HydroHoist offers various mooring options and mounting hardware (sold separately), enabling this Bow Guide to work with multiple dock types and configurations.
Will it scratch my gel coat?
No—the surface is cushioned and designed to be non-marring when used as directed.
Do I need other guides too?
If your slip is narrow or conditions are windy, pairing with Centering Guides delivers the most stress-free docking.
Can I install it myself?
Yes, many owners do. For perfect placement (and warranty alignment), we recommend dealer installation.
Will it work with my specific boat?
Yes—your dealer will position the Bow Guide for your bow profile and bunk spacing to ensure smooth, centered entry.
