Answering the common need for safe, easy dinghy handling, this guide highlights five top dinghy davit systems designed for inflatables and small boats. Aimed at boaters who want reliable lifting, quick-release access, and corrosion resistance, these options suitDonna who regularly launches from a dock, yachts with limited transom space, and weekend sailors who value fast setup. The product table below helps compare core specs at a glance.
| Product | Material / Capacity | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| EVGATSAUTO Boat Snap Davit System | 304 Stainless Steel; up to 110 kg (220 lbs) | Small inflatables; quick lift | Stable, rust‑resistant, easy lift |
| Asixxsix Quick Release Davits | 304 Stainless Steel; up to 110 kg (220 lbs) | Yacht or inflatable transoms; stylish finish | Polished finish; strong lifting capacity |
| FEIJAZUM Dinghy Sling | 3‑point; up to 1000 lb (454 kg) | Large inflatables; balanced lift | Three-leg design for stability |
| Alaisee 3‑Leg Universal Sling | Polyester nylon sling; up to 1000 lb | 5–20 ft boats; portable | Corrosion‑resistant hardware |
| Vinland Marine Quick Release Dinghy Davits | 304 Stainless Steel; up to 150 lb per dinghy | Small inflatables; quick releases | White or black options; durable |
EVGATSAUTO Boat Snap Davit System
The EVGATSAUTO system uses sturdy 304 stainless steel with a high-hardness finish intended for seawater exposure. It is designed to lift inflatables and RIBs up to 110 kg (220 lbs) via a quick-release snap hook, enabling a fast transition from water to trailer or deck. This makes it well-suited for boaters who want a compact, retrofitable solution that doesn’t require a fixed installation. The components are described as stable once positioned, with a lifting mechanism that rotates the tender to a near-vertical position for ease of stowage.
Best for: Small inflatable boats or tenders where rapid deployment and simple installation matter. Better for boats that lack a fixed davit system but still need reliable, corrosion‑resistant hardware. Choose this if you value a straightforward lift without a heavy mounting footprint. Limitation: As a snap system, it may require precise positioning and regular checks to ensure locking hooks engage securely.
Asixxsix Quick Release Davits Set
The Asixxsix system uses 304 stainless steel and is designed for rapid installation on yachts, boats, or inflatable transoms. It offers a 110 kg (220 lbs) lifting capacity for inflatables, with a highly polished finish that balances aesthetics with durability. The system emphasizes seawater resistance and wear resistance, making it a solid option for coastal or saltwater use. It is described as a quick mount that allows the tender to be lifted to a vertical position for storage.
Best for: Captains seeking a high‑quality, low‑profile davit head that installs directly onto a transom. Better for inflatables and small tenders where a quick, clean look matters. Choose this if you want a robust finish and straightforward operation. Caution: Ensure proper mounting structure on your boat to avoid mounting misalignment and verify the hooks engage securely.
Dinghy – Lift™ for Davits
The Dinghy – Lift system includes a long retainer strap to stabilize the boat during lifting. It emphasizes a design that won’t harm inflatable fabrics as it uses wire-free harnesses and nylon webbing legs. This option is focused on gentle handling and minimizing contact with delicate inflatable surfaces, reducing the risk of puncture or abrasion during the lift.
Best for: Inflatable boats where fabric sensitivity is a priority. Better for delicate rigs or when lifting gear needs to minimize fabric wear. Choose this if you want a simple, fabric‑friendly sling. Limitation: It may provide less rigid support compared with three‑point slings for larger or oddly shaped inflatables.
FEIJAZUM Dinghy Sling
The FEIJAZUM sling features a three-leg inflatable lifting sling with a heavy‑duty 1000 lb capacity, designed for 5–20 ft boats. The adjustable high‑strength polyester straps feature reinforced stainless steel hooks to ensure level balance during lifting. The three-point suspension helps prevent tilting and distributes weight evenly across the sling, making it safer for small inflatables when attached to a davit system or lifting point.
Best for: Heavier inflatables or when precise balance is needed during lift. Better for longer boats where a three‑point design provides stability. Choose this if you need a very stable lift across variable hull shapes. Caution: Ensure straps remain free of twists and regularly inspect stitching and hooks for wear.
Alaisee 3 Leg Sling System
The Alaisee sling uses a three‑leg system with strong load bearing up to 1000 lb. Made from corrosion‑resistant stainless steel hardware and durable nylon webbing, it is designed for 5–20 ft inflatable boats. The sling is described as flexible with adjustable length to fit multiple shapes, packed into a compact form for portability. It is suitable for use with davits or lift frames and aims to minimize tilt during lifting.
Best for: Versatile, portable lifting of various inflatables. Better for boaters who need a compact, strong sling to fit different hulls and davit configurations. Choose this if you require a balance of strength, flexibility, and portability. Caution: Check the overall rigging clearance to avoid contact with the hull or deck hardware during lift.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Capacity vs. boat size: Match sling or davit capacity to your dinghy weight and typical load. Higher capacity offers versatility but may require more robust mounting hardware.
- Material and environment: Stainless steel (304 or better) resists corrosion in saltwater. Consider protective finishes for exposed locations.
- Stability and balance: Three‑point slings provide better balance for irregular hull shapes. Two‑point systems are simpler but may tilt if not carefully aligned.
- Mounting location and compatibility: Ensure the transom or mounting surface can support the load and is compatible with your chosen davit system. Retrofit must consider deck clearance and wave impact.
- Ease of use: Quick-release mechanisms save time. Check whether the system requires tools for installation or ongoing maintenance checks for secure engagement.
- Fabric care: If your inflatable is delicate, choose slings with soft contact surfaces and designs that minimize fabric wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What capacity do I need for my inflatables?
Size your gear to the dinghy weight and typical load, plus a safety margin. If in doubt, aim for a system that exceeds the dinghy weight by 20–30%.
- Are stainless steel davits better than aluminum?
Stainless steel typically offers greater corrosion resistance in saltwater environments. Aluminum can be lighter but may require protective finishes and care to prevent galvanic corrosion with other metals.
- Is a three‑point sling worth it for small inflatables?
Yes for better balance and even load distribution, especially on uneven hull shapes. Two‑point systems can suffice for simple, uniform hulls.
- Can I install these myself, or do I need professional help?
Many options are designed for at‑home mounting, but review the mounting requirements carefully. If you lack confidence or your boat’s transom structure is unusual, seek professional assistance.
- Will these fits work with my existing davit system?
Most are designed to be retrofitted to common transom setups. Verify compatibility with your current davits, mounting points, and S‑hooks or clasps used.