Those of you on lifts, bow or stern in?

[tabbibus]

Yes , I have both. My dealer installed the JBP Thrust Vector XVs on the boat new before I took delivery. Most people on the forum (including me) will encourage a new owner / operator to get the feel of boat without any steering assist devices. I then took the XVs off and "polished" my skills ?? Last year I purchased the Cobra Jet AK set ( previously pictured on the lift) and still have them on the boat today. Both good products but I give a slight edge to the Cobras.

Yeah, no immediate plans to add them right now, still getting to know how she handles "naked". My question was more regarding any issues with these when backing into the lift. Also, what type of lift do you have?

 

[WildCatFan54]

NO issues whatsoever with either product in backing into the slip. I have the EconoLift Model 65HDB four post side mount lift in the 10 x 24 slip.

 

[VaMarine]

So I think everyones boating experiences are different so there isnt a 1 size fits all answer to this.

We live on a creek that attaches to the Chesapeake Bay, our lift is attached directly to our private dock (45'x25'), the portion of our dock closest to the house is closed off to create a deck. Additionally, depending on the tide, the front portion of the dock is in ~1' MWL while the back is at 4'. Because of these factors, we bow into the boat house.

 

[Nick Hughes]

Stern in, wouldn't have it any other way. I do have Cobras and a transponder down there. Just have to lower the lift into the water more. 10x22 slip in a fairly calm, but tight marina, only about 30 feet between my row and the next. You get good at backing really quickly.

 

[Andechsfinance]

Getting my lift installed in a couple of weeks. Apparently I get the option of bow or stern in. What do y'all do? I worry that if I get some aftermarket steering assist these may be an issue if I go stern in. Sound out folks. Thanks

What did you do? Who did you get it from? (I'm on Lanier as well and starting the search for a lift.)

 

[tabbibus]

I got a refurbished lift from Frankie Reese. Great price and service. My switch blew out a couple of months ago and he replaced it in 24 hours.

 

[PeterB]

We really prefer boarding from the swim platform so a lot of the decision on stern in vs bow in depends on the size and shape of the dock. I found I could stern in just as quickly as bow in after a few times practicing. The lift we currently have can only be used as bow in, so we plan to replace it at some point. The decision also has to do with the type of lift and relative height - ie will the lifted boat be too high to easily use the stern or can you float stern in and use it effectively etc. So location, how you use the boat and dock all play into what is best for you