A tritoon boat is a type of pontoon boat that features three pontoons instead of the traditional two. The extra middle pontoon enhances stability, buoyancy, and overall performance on the water—qualities that have made tritoons increasingly popular for recreational and commercial use. However, this additional pontoon also requires a more specialized lift system. In this guide, we’ll explain why a dedicated tritoon boat lift is essential, outline the differences between these systems and standard pontoon lifts, and introduce Hewitt’s tailored lift solutions.

Why Tritoons Need Specialized Support

Unlike standard two-pontoon boats, a tritoon features an extra central pontoon that affects weight distribution and overall stability. To safeguard your vessel, a lift system designed specifically for tritoons must either lift by the deck using a rack system or cradle the pontoons with precision using bunk supports. Hewitt’s engineered tritoon boat lift bunks and reinforced lift cradles are designed to minimize stress on your boat’s frame and ensure even support across all three pontoons.

Can You Put a Tritoon on a Standard Pontoon Lift?

While it might be tempting to use a conventional pontoon lift for a tritoon, the unique design of tritoon boats demands more specialized support. Standard lifts may inadvertently impact the middle pontoon, especially if they rely solely on a deck-lifting mechanism. In a well-designed rack lift, the deck is engaged correctly, with the support going between the pontoons to avoid direct contact with the middle toon. Alternatively, lifts that use a bunk design cradle each pontoon individually, ensuring that the middle pontoon remains unaffected. If using a normal pontoon bunk lift, the middle toon would be unsupported. Both approaches are critical in protecting your tritoon from potential damage and ensuring a smooth lifting operation. For tight docking spaces, consider options like the Narrow Pontoon Lift, engineered to provide precise support without compromise.

Bunk vs Rack Tritoon Lifts

When it comes to lifting your tritoon boat, two primary systems are available: rack lifts and bunk lifts. Rack lifts operate by engaging the boat's deck and inserting a support between the pontoons; this method efficiently lifts the vessel but must be precisely engineered to ensure the middle pontoon is not inadvertently contacted. Bunk lifts cradle each pontoon individually, distributing the boat’s weight evenly and keeping the middle pontoon completely free from impact. This approach not only enhances long-term protection for your vessel but also allows for fine-tuned adjustments to accommodate unique weight distributions. Choosing between these systems largely depends on your docking setup and the specific design requirements of your tritoon boat.

Cantilever, Vertical, & Hydraulic Tritoon Lifts

Choosing between a hydraulic tritoon lift and a tritoon cantilever lift comes down to operational convenience and your specific installation needs. Hewitt offers a range of options:

Tritoon Cantilever Lifts

These lifts work by using a fixed horizontal arm that extends outward to support the boat at a balanced pivot point, ensuring a stable lift process. Their robust construction and simple design maximize stability even in choppy water conditions, delivering reliable performance over time. Checkout Hewitt’s Cantilever, Hydraulic Cantilever, and Narrow Tritoon lifts.

Vertical Tritoon Lifts

Vertical lifts work by raising the boat straight upward using a columnar mechanism, which keeps the vessel securely suspended without any lateral movement. This design adapts seamlessly to fluctuating water levels, ensuring your tritoon remains secure and minimizing the risk of submersion. Checkout Hewitt’s Hi-Lift Vertical Tritoon lifts.

Hydraulic Tritoon Lifts

Hydraulic lifts work by utilizing fluid pressure within a closed system to drive a piston-based mechanism, enabling smooth and precise lifting and lowering operations. Their powerful push-button control system makes them especially suited for heavy-duty applications, reducing operator fatigue while ensuring consistent performance. Checkout Hewitt’s Hydraulic and Hydraulic Large Capacity Tritoon lifts.

Key Installation Considerations

When installing your tritoon boat lift, keep these factors in mind to ensure optimal performance:

• Weight Rating: Verify that the lift’s capacity exceeds your boat’s total weight, including fuel, gear, and any additional load.
• Dock Space & Water Depth: Ensure your docking area accommodates the lift’s footprint, considering variations in water depth and tidal changes.
• Lift Bunk Adjustments: Confirm that the tritoon lift bunks can be finely tuned to provide even support along each pontoon—whether using a rack or bunk approach.
• Regular Maintenance: Routine inspections of cables, pulleys, and bunk cushioning are crucial to keeping your lift operating safely and efficiently.

Get Personalized Advice from Hewitt

Investing in the right tritoon boat lift is vital for preserving your tritoon’s integrity and maximizing its on-water performance. Whether you opt for a rack lift that engages the deck between the pontoons or a bunk lift that cradles each toon individually, choosing a system specifically designed for tritoon boats makes all the difference. With a range of solutions, Hewitt offers tailored options to ensure your tritoon is lifted safely and efficiently. If you have any questions about tritoon lifts, reach out to Hewitt today or a local Hewitt Dealer.