Lifting a large yacht with a travel lift is both unavoidable at times, and an opportunity for things to go very awry. Doing due diligence well in advance of the maintenance period saves a lot of stress – as well as the potential for a lot of time talking with insurance adjusters should something not work out right. Travel lifts can vary greatly, from different numbers of straps, to different strap widths, to different strap arrangements meaning that just because a particular lift has the ability to lift your boat, doesn’t mean it can do it without damage.
DLBA’s recommendation is to engage a naval architect to check tank loading, global strength and stiffness (hull girder), local strength (plating and framing) and interferences between straps and blocks. Our team has engineered plenty of special lifts and has worked closely with the Rybovich hauling and blocking team with great success on many occasions. It’s ideal to get in contact at least a month out so you can approach the haul out period as prepared as possible but we’re here to assist – please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions.