If you’re looking to safely lift, store, and deploy a dinghy from a swim platform, these davit sets are designed to be strong, quick to release, and ship-ready for boats and yachts. This guide highlights five proven options and explains who each is best for, with practical tips to compare features like lifting capacity, materials, and mounting style. Ideal buyers include motorboat owners seeking fast swaps on transoms, inflatable dinghy users needing reliable quick-release systems, and sailors wanting durable, corrosion-resistant hardware.
Summary table of selected products:
| Product | Material | Approx. Lifting Capacity | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MARINE CITY Quick Release Snap Davits Set – 304 Stainless Steel (White Handle Pads) | 304 Stainless Steel | 150 lbs | Yachts and boats needing quick release with white pads | Pack of 2; transom mounting; removable heads |
| MARINE CITY Quick Release Snap Davits Set – 304 Stainless Steel (Black Handle Pads) | 304 Stainless Steel | 150 lbs | Durable, versatile transom mounting for yachts | Pack of 2; includes mounting hardware |
| Jiawu Quick Release Snap Davits Set with Handle Pad | 304 Stainless Steel | 110 kg (≈242 lbs) | Yachts and inflatable boats requiring strong, easy-lock system | Includes white armrests; robust for seawater use |
| Asixxsix Quick Release Snap Davits Set | 304 Stainless Steel | 110 kg (≈242 lbs) | Inflatable boats and yachts with stylish finish | High-polish finish; quick mounting |
| FEIJAZUM Dinghy Sling (3 Leg) with Stainless Hooks | Stainless steel hooks, polyester straps | 1000 lbs | Heavy-duty sling for 5-20 ft boats and dinghies | 3-leg suspension for balanced lift |
MARINE CITY Quick Release Snap Davits Set – 304 Stainless Steel (White Pads)
Best for yacht owners who want a lightweight, corrosion-resistant snap davit set with removable heads. Made from 304 stainless steel, these davits offer a 150 lb lifting capacity and come as a pair for balanced transom mounting. The white handle pads help protect both dinghy and boat surfaces. Useful for quick release and straightforward removal when not in use. Consider the regressor when storing a heavier inflatable or multiple tenders.
Who it’s best for: yacht owners or boaters needing a reliable, low-profile davit pair with easy removal and white pad protection. Why selected: strong material, generous lifting capacity, and simple mounting are ideal for frequent tender deployment.
Caution: Ensure proper alignment of pins and mounting hardware to avoid misalignment during lift.
MARINE CITY Quick Release Snap Davits Set – 304 Stainless Steel (White Pads)
A second MARINE CITY variant with white pads, this set emphasizes quick removal direct from the transom for boats that need flexible tender handling. The 304 stainless steel construction ensures durability in marine environments. Lifting capacity remains solid at 150 lbs, suitable for most inflatables and small dinghies. The included mounting hardware simplifies installation.
Best for: owners who prioritize quick detach capability and pad protection on the transom. Why selected: identical material strength with a different pad option to match boat aesthetics and protection needs.
Caution: Verify pad clearance and transom space to avoid interference with swim platform hardware.
Jiawu Quick Release Snap Davits Set With Handle Pad
High-strength 304 stainless steel with a white handle pad design makes this Jiawu set robust for seawater exposure and long-term use. It mounts quickly to a yacht or inflatable boat transom and is rated to lift inflatables up to 220 lbs when properly installed. The lock-in hooks provide a secure hold, reducing the risk of accidental drop during lift. Suitable for boats with limited stern space where a compact, strong system is needed.
Best for: dinghy owners needing a sturdy, compact davit with strong lift capacity for inflatables. Why selected: excellent balance of ease of installation, lock-in security, and resilience in harsh marine conditions.
Caution: Ensure proper pin alignment and verify load distribution to prevent tilting during lift.
Asixxsix Quick Release Snap Davits Set
Asixxsix provides a robust 304 stainless steel davit system with a polished finish for a stylish, durable option. It is designed for quick mounting on a yacht or inflatable boat transom and offers a high lifting capacity of up to 110 kg (about 242 lbs). The system aims to combine aesthetics with functional strength, making it a fit for boaters who want reliable performance without compromising appearance.
Best for: users seeking a high-capacity, aesthetically pleasing davit option for yachts and inflatable boats. Why selected: strong lifting capacity and polished finish suit both performance and appearance needs.
Caution: Like other transom mounts, verify clearance around swim platform hardware to ensure full range of motion during lifts.
FEIJAZUM Dinghy Sling, 3 Leg, 1000 lb Capacity
FEIJAZUM’s three-leg sling is designed for heavier dinghies and inflatables, with a high 1000 lb capacity and adjustable polyester straps with reinforced stainless steel hooks. This system helps maintain level balance during lifting and prevents tilting. It’s ideal for boats that require more robust support than typical davit heads provide, or for dinghies that are wider or heavier than standard inflatables.
Best for: owners of heavier dinghies or inflatables who want a safer, balanced lift with adjustable straps. Why selected: exceptional weight capacity and three-point suspension improve stability during the lift.
Caution: Sling systems require careful setup to achieve true balance; improper strap length can cause uneven lift.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Material and corrosion resistance: Look for 304 stainless steel or higher and a polished finish for prolonged life in saltwater environments.
- Lift capacity: Match the system to the heaviest tender you carry. Choose a model with a comfortable safety margin above your dinghy’s weight.
- Mounting style: Transom-mounted davits are quick to install and remove, but ensure your swim platform has adequate space and clearance.
- Ease of use: Quick release mechanisms save time and effort, especially on small boats.
- Pad protection: Handle pads help protect both the dinghy and the boat’s finish and reduce wear during docking and lifting.
- Compatibility: Check that the system suits your dinghy type (inflatable vs rigid hull) and your boat size.
- Maintenance: Stainless steel systems benefit from rinse after salt exposure and periodic inspection of pins, screws, and locking mechanisms.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a dinghy davit used for on a swim platform?
– It is used to lift, secure, and deploy a dinghy from the swim platform, keeping the tender clear of water and hull surfaces when not in use. - What lifting capacity should I look for with inflatable dinghies?
– Choose a system with a capacity at or above the weight of your dinghy plus accessories, with a safety margin for hardware and water conditions. - Are transom-mount davits easy to install?
– Many are designed for quick mounting and removal with included hardware; verify your transom geometry and space before investing. - Do these systems require professional installation?
– In most cases, no professional installation is required, but ensure you follow the manufacturer’s mounting instructions for safety and warranty. - Can I use a dinghy sling instead of davits?
– A dinghy sling provides heavy-duty support and balance for certain configurations, especially for heavier inflatables; it can complement or substitute in some setups. - Which option is best for a small sailboat with limited stern space?
– A compact, quick-release transom-davit set with a high lifting capacity is typically best, prioritizing space efficiency and secure locking.