Jet skis and other personal watercraft (PWC) provide hours of fun and excitement on the water. After a day of zipping through the waves, you need a place to store your PWC that protects it and prolongs its life span.
Docking a PWC involves more than tying it to the nearest structure. Leaving it in the water exposes it to corrosion and other elements. Luckily, plenty of docking options exist to keep your jet ski or PWC safe and secure.
What Are the Best Docks for Jet Skis and PWCs?
You have a few docking options that can suit different needs. Here’s a rundown.
1. Floating Docks
Floating docks rest on the water’s surface. They protect your PWC from wave, tide or debris damage. A key benefit is how they move with rising and falling water levels, making them ideal for tidal areas. Stand-out features include:
- Buoyant design: The durable, lightweight materials float on water for easy access.
- Adjustable configuration: You can customize modular floating docks to accommodate different PWC models.
- Simple launch: The floating platform offers hassle-free launch and retrieval. It eliminates the need for a trailer or ramp, so you can dock and go.
- Stability: Floating docks stay stable in different water conditions. You can use them in lakes, rivers or coastal areas.
2. Fixed Docks
A fixed jet ski dock attaches to the shoreline or a pier. Since it’s anchored, it won’t bob around with the waves, making it great for lakes with stable water levels. While it offers a more permanent solution, keep in mind it can be pricey to build and repair. Getting the necessary permits might also take longer than with other options.
3. PWC Lifts
A jet ski lift is a handy device designed to raise your jet ski out of the water when it’s not in use. Suspending the watercraft protects against corrosion, debris and algae buildup.
The lift system includes a platform, a lifting mechanism and a control system. Your PWC sits on the platform while the lifting mechanism raises and lowers it, making it easy to get your jet ski in and out of the water whenever you want to ride.
Choosing a Jet Ski Dock
Looking for the perfect docking solution to store your PWC? Here are some tips to help you decide:
- Understand the water conditions. Consider where you plan to dock. A fixed dock suits calm lakes, while a floating dock is ideal for choppy waters or fluctuating tides.
- Assess space availability. Floating docks or lifts offer flexibility, while fixed docks take more room and commitment. Whichever option you choose, ensure it fits the available space.
- Consider convenience. The easier it is to launch and retrieve your PWC, the more time you can enjoy the water. Choose a lift or floating dock for quick access.
- Keep budget in mind. Floating docks or PWC lifts are more affordable and easier to install. Fixed docks require a bigger upfront investment and can be costlier to repair.
- Think about maintenance. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into maintenance. Some options, like fixed docks, need more upkeep than others.
EZ Docks PWC and Jet Ski Docking Options
At EZ Dock, we deliver reliable solutions to help boat owners maximize waterfront space. Our extensive product range includes PWC lifts and ports compatible with various dock types:
- EZ Port® 280: This recent addition to the EZ Dock PWC port family can accommodate medium to large watercraft. It provides an additional 10 inches of walking space on either side for easier loading and unloading.
- EZ Port® VXP: The flexible VXP works with an EZ Dock system or as a stand-alone unit. We recommend it for use with shorter-end systems under 1,300 pounds.
- EZ Port® 2i: The 2i features a revolutionary self-centering design that simplifies drive-on watercraft entry.
To further enhance your docking system needs, you can customize your EZ Dock port further with add-ons:
- EZ Port® MAX Extension: This modular port system is perfect for storing multiple PWCs. Customize it to accommodate watercraft of various sizes and shapes.
- EZ Port® MAX Entry: Attach this port to an existing docking system or use it alone. It can support supplemental flotation to handle heavier, bulkier PWCs.
- EZ Port® MAX Easy Lift Entry: Combine this PWC lift (or the EZ Port® MAX Entry) with the EZ Port® MAX Extension. They deliver additional stability and keep the watercraft centered on the dock.
- EZ Port® MAX Full Bow:The MAX Full Bow supplements the EZ Port MAX system, fitting many watercraft and maximizing the dock height.
- EZ Port® MAX Small Bow: To increase docking safety, add this port to your EZ Port MAX Entry or MAX Extension system.
- EZ Port® 2i Bow Stop: Deploy this user-friendly 2i attachment to help port your PWC or jet ski safely.
Learn More About Our PWC and Jet Ski Docks
At EZ Docks, docking is our passion! Our knowledgeable crew can answer your PWC dock and lift questions, from how to dock a PWC to which type of dock is best for you. For more information, submit our online contact form or call us at 732-787-3088. We can also provide a no-obligation quote.