August 15, 2024

Pontoon to Tritoon Conversion Kit: Converting Your Pontoon

Written by ShoreMaster Marketing

Turning your Pontoon Lift into a TriToon Lift: How to Use Pontoon to Tritoon Conversion

Over the years, pontoon boats have surged in popularity among boating enthusiasts. Their unique design and versatility make them a favorite for many water activities. From leisure cruises and fishing excursions to watersports and even hosting parties, pontoon boats can do it all. In addition to this, their durability and low maintenance requirements make them a practical choice for many boating enthusiasts.  

With increased popularity comes heightened performance requirements. This has led to the rise of tritoons — the product of enhancing the design and performance of the beloved pontoon. If you’re a pontoon boat owner looking to upgrade, you might wonder if your lift can support a bigger, heavier boat with an extra toon. Below, we discuss everything you need to know about ShoreMaster’s pontoon to tritoon conversion kit to help you decide if it’s the right solution for your needs. 

Introduction to Boat Lifts  

Boat lifts come in various configurations, each offering distinct advantages. Here’s an overview of some popular options:

• Vertical boat lifts: This type of lift raises vessels to greater heights, making them ideal for areas with fluctuating water levels. Vertical lifts use a winch and a system of cables and pulleys to lift boats vertically, straight up and down. You can operate these lifting solutions manually or with a boat lift motor.
• Hydraulic boat lifts: This lift design utilizes hydraulic systems to raise and lower vessels. The hydraulic pump sends pressurized fluid to the cylinders, which extend to raise the boat. When the fluid is released, the cylinders contract to lower the watercraft. Hydraulic lifts offer smooth and consistent operation, making them ideal for heavier vessels.  
• Floating boat lifts: This type of lift uses tanks filled with air or foam to elevate vessels out of the water. Because they rise and fall with the water level, they make for an ideal shallow water boat lift.

With ShoreMaster, you can always find a solution to accommodate your unique requirements, whether you need wider bunks and cradles for your pontoon boat, remote-controlled boat lift motors, or storage for your personal watercraft (PWC). 

Identifying Your Boat Lift Needs  

Here are some key considerations to help you choose the optimal boat lift:

• Boat size and weight: Choose a lift that can support your boat’s wet weight, including all the equipment and gear typically stored onboard. For reference, a watercraft with 600 gallons of fuel and 200 gallons of drinking water can add over 6,700 lbs to the boat’s weight (Ita Yachts Canada, 2024). In addition to lifting capacity, ensure the lift can accommodate the boat’s overall dimensions, including any extensions like outboard motors or swim platforms. 
• Hull design: Different hull shapes, such as V-hulls, flat bottoms, and pontoons, have varying support and stability requirements. For instance, V-hulls may require more support along the keel, while flat-bottom boats need balanced support across the hull. Additionally, consider your boat’s draft (how deep it sits in the water), as vessels with deeper drafts may require lifts that raise them higher out of the water. 
• Environment and usage: Consider the typical conditions at the installation site and how often you’ll use the boat lift. For example, boats in areas with significant water level fluctuations will benefit from the lifting height of vertical lifts. A hydraulic lift with quick and easy operation might be preferable if you use your boat frequently.  

Remember, while premium boat lifts might have higher upfront costs, the convenience and protection they offer elevate your vessel and, more importantly, your boating experience. 

Finding Boat Lifts for Sale Near You  

After assessing your needs, it’s time to find a reliable and knowledgeable dealer. Here are some tips to help you find reputable dealers near you:

• ShoreMaster dealer locator: Visit the ShoreMaster Find a Dealer page and enter your ZIP or postal code. You’ll see a list of dealers closest to your area, including contact information and driving directions. 
• ShoreMaster contact a dealer form: If the tool doesn’t return the desired results, you can fill up the Contact A Dealer Form. Tick the products you’re interested in, submit your information, and a ShoreMaster dealer or our customer support team will be in touch with you. 
• Boat shows and expos: Attending local boat shows and events is an excellent way to meet dealers, see various lift models and other docking solutions in person, and ask questions directly from the experts. If you’re new to the community, these events are great opportunities to engage and connect with local boating clubs, marina operators, and kindred spirits.  

Of course, you can always contact us at our Fergus Falls, MN, headquarters at (800) 328-8945 for everything you need to know about ShoreMaster boat lifts and docks. 

Evaluating Boat Lift Dealers  

Not all dealers are created equal, so evaluating them carefully before purchasing is crucial. Here are some considerations to help you find the ideal waterfront partner:

• Reputation and reviews: Check websites and social media profiles, and research online reviews and customer testimonials to gauge dealers’ credibility and customer service records. You can also ask dealers for references and talk to other boat owners about their experiences.  
• Experience and expertise: Choose a dealer with a proven track record and experienced staff who can provide expert advice and recommendations. We recommend working with dealers who are waterfront enthusiasts themselves, as you can get invaluable insights from their personal experiences. 
• Warranty and after-sales support: Consider the dealer’s level of after-sales support. This includes installation services, maintenance, and warranty coverage. You’ll be owning your docking solutions for a long time, so you want a dealer that can assist you with any concerns. 

Engage with several dealers and request quotes for your preferred boat lift setup. A good dealer will provide multiple options, enabling you to get the best deal and solution for your needs. 

Making the Purchase: What to Expect  

Here’s a general overview of what happens when you choose ShoreMaster to transform your waterfront experience:

• Consultation and assessment: A local ShoreMaster dealer can conduct a site visit to assess your need, providing recommendations based on your boat, dock setup, and waterfront conditions. They can also assist you in complying with local guidelines. In Florida, for example, the Department of Environmental Protection outlines a general permit process for floating vessel platforms and boat lifts (Florida Department of Environmental Protection, n.d.).   
• Quotation: Based on the assessment and your preferences, you will receive a detailed quotation outlining the costs involved with setting up the boat lift. Some dealers may also offer financing options to make the purchase more palatable. 
• Installation: While ShoreMaster boat lifts are relatively easy to install, we recommend you leave the task to a professional, especially if it’s your first install. Local ShoreMaster dealers can perform the installation or connect you with qualified professionals.
• Demonstration and training: After installation, the dealer/installer should demonstrate how to operate and maintain the lift properly, providing safety guidelines and basic troubleshooting.  

Remember, investing in a boat lift is an investment in your boat's longevity and safety. Start your search today and enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that come with a quality boat lift from ShoreMaster. Happy shopping!

References:

• Florida Department of Environmental Protection (n.d.). Dock Permitting in Florida. Retrieved from https://floridadep.gov/sites/default/files/SWD_Dock%20Permitting%20in%20Florida-D5_FINAL_0.pdf 
• Ita Yachts Canada (July 4, 2024). The Importance Of Considering A Boat’s Weight When Buying A Boat. Retrieved from https://itayachtscanada.com/the-importance-of-considering-a-boats-weight-when-buying-a-boat/