Traditional boat docks are a great way to access watercraft, but they can be limiting for recreational water activities. They are fixed in place, so they can’t adapt to changing water levels or accommodate large boats.
One solution to the problem is drive-on docks. Also called dry docks or PWC ports, these docks offer a number of advantages in terms of recreational PWCs that make them so popular.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the benefits of these docks to understand why they work so well for recreational water activities.
Benefits of Drive-on Docks For Recreation
Easy Launching and Retrieval
A huge advantage of drive-on docks is the ease with which watercraft can be launched and retrieved. Traditional boat launching methods involve manual lifting or backing trailers into the water, which can be time-consuming and physically demanding.
Drive-on docks eliminate that hassle with a simple and efficient ‘drive-on, roll-off’ mechanism. Now, there’s no manual labor involved in getting the PWC on or off – you can drive on and get going.
Reduced Wear & Tear
Traditional boat launching procedures, especially in shallow or rough waters, can cause unnecessary wear and tear. The watercraft can easily get damaged by sharp objects within the water to the dock itself.
Drive-on docks minimize the impact on the watercraft’s hull by gently lifting it out of the water onto the platform. This can extend the lifespan of the watercraft and reduce maintenance costs.
Better Safety
Drive-on docks are designed with safety in mind. They typically come with non-slip surfaces, secure tie-down points, and sturdy rails to ensure safety. With a stable and secure platform, watercraft owners can board and disembark their PWCs safely.
Safety features minimize the risk of accidents or injuries, making drive-on docks an ideal choice for users of all ages, especially families with children.
Adapting to Water Level Changes
One of the standout features of drive-on docks is their adaptability to water level fluctuations. They are typically made as floating docks, which allows them to rise and fall with the water. As a result, you get constant access to the watercraft, regardless of the tide changes.
This makes them great for locations where the water level is constantly changing – whether that’s just the tide or because of seasonal variation.
Maintenance & Longevity
Drive-on docks are made of durable material like high-density polyethylene or aluminum. These materials are much better at withstanding water damage and harsh weather conditions.
This means they require minimal maintenance, adding to their appeal. A robust structure offers longevity, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
Space Efficiency
Drive-on docks are also quite space-efficient when it comes to storage. Unlike traditional docks requiring extensive shoreline space and boat slips, they use the water surface much more effectively.
They can be installed in a row or even as individual units so that you can maximize the use of available waterfront space without limitations.
While they may not be the best for extensive waterfront operations like commercial or large boats, drive-on docks are great for recreational activities. With all these benefits, they have revolutionized the storage and launch of PWCs, making it a lot easier to head out into the water and have some fun.
EZ Dock Texas offers low-maintenance docks, such as floating docks for boats, covered floating docks, drive-on docks, etc. For more information, please call (800) 654-8168.
