Cantilever Pontoon Lifts: The Shallow Water Specialist
In many Ontario lake regions, shallow shorelines can make traditional boat lifts impossible to use. The Cantilever Pontoon Lift is the “shallow water king,” engineered specifically for two-log pontoon boats. By supporting the craft from under the deck rather than under the pontoons, this lift allows you to park your boat in any depth where it can successfully float.
Key Takeaway: If your pontoon boat can float into position, this lift can pick it up. It is the most effective solution for shallow Muskoka shorelines, providing up to 69″ of travel to keep your deck high and dry.
The “Under-Deck” Advantage
Most boat lifts require significant water depth to account for the thickness of the bunks and the frame under the pontoons. The Cantilever Pontoon Lift changes the math:
- Minimal Draft Required: Because it lifts from the frame of the boat (under the deck), you eliminate the need for extra water depth.
- Pontoon Protection: Lifting from the boat’s structural frame prevents pressure and potential denting on the aluminum pontoons that can occur with traditional bunk systems.
- Simple Mechanics: The cantilever “arc” motion is mechanically simple, requiring fewer moving parts and offering long-term reliability in freshwater environments.
Technical Specifications
We offer five distinct models to match the length and weight of your pontoon boat.
| Model | Capacity | Length | Lift Travel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32BL18 | 3,200 lbs | 18′ | 57″ – 69″ |
| 32BL22 | 3,200 lbs | 22′ | 57″ – 69″ |
| 32BL25 | 3,200 lbs | 25′ | 57″ – 69″ |
| 42BL25 | 4,200 lbs | 25′ | 57″ – 69″ |
| 42BL28 | 4,200 lbs | 28′ | 57″ – 69″ |
Important Compatibility Note
- Two-Log Pontoons Only: This style of lift is designed exclusively for traditional two-log pontoon boats.
- Tri-toons: If you own a Tri-toon, the center log prevents the cantilever frame from reaching the deck. For Tri-toons, we recommend checking our Vertical Boat Lift page.
The “On The Water” Promise
Frequently Asked Questions
Pontoon boats have wide beams and multiple flotation tubes that require balanced support. Pontoon lifts are designed with wider bunks and reinforced frames to properly support the boat while lifting.
In many cases, traditional boat lifts are not designed for the width and weight distribution of pontoon boats. Pontoon-specific lifts provide better support and stability.
Pontoon lifts are commonly installed on stationary docks, pipe docks, and other permanent dock systems that provide a stable base for lifting heavier boats.
Yes. Lifting the boat out of the water reduces algae buildup, corrosion, and long-term exposure to water that can affect performance and maintenance.
Yes. Pontoon lifts come in multiple lifting capacities so boat owners can choose a lift that matches the size and weight of their pontoon boat.
