June 13, 2024

PWC Floating Dock: Why You Need One

Written by ShoreMaster Marketing

Advantages of Using a PWC Floating Dock for Your Jet Ski

Whether you enjoy exploring hidden coves and waterways, riding up to remote fishing spots, or carving up the waves with friends, if you own a jet ski, investing in a personal watercraft (PWC) floating dock is a no-brainer. Below, we delve into the advantages these innovative waterfront solutions provide and why ShoreMaster drive-on ports are the top choice for protecting and storing your PWC. 

Introduction to PWC Floating Docks  

Investing in a PWC floating dock is the best way to protect, preserve, and store your jet ski. A drive on jet ski dock keeps your PWC out of the water when not in use, protecting it from rough water and traffic and deterring intake fouling from marine growth. Floating jet ski docks also provide the quickest and most convenient way to launch and drydock PWCs, maximizing your time on the water to enjoy more of what you love. 

Here’s a closer look at how ShoreMaster’s PWC floating docks enhance your waterfront lifestyle:

• Ease of ownership: Launching your jet ski from the trailer and hauling it back on each time you want to use it can deter you from enjoying what it’s designed to do. Our drive-on ports give you a dedicated dock, saving you time and effort from constantly trailering your jet ski to and from the water. 
• Enhanced safety and reliability: ShoreMaster PWC floating docks feature anti-skid, slip-resistant surfaces, making it safer to climb onto and off your jet ski while protecting the PWC’s hull. In addition, their bottom cavity construction increases stability while hydrophobic vents prevent water from entering the port. These features make them a reliable solution, capable of handling rougher conditions. 
• Versatility: With various anchorage and connection options, you can attach our PWC docks to virtually any standing, wheel-in, or floating dock system. You can also use them as stand-alone drive-on docks or connect them to other ports. 

If you’re debating whether to get a floating dock vs. fixed dock, ShoreMaster’s PWC ports are as easy to install as they are to store. This makes them ideal for areas like Michigan, which doesn't require a permit for seasonal docks (State of Michigan, n.d.).

Types of PWC Floating Docks Available 

We offer a range of PWC floating docks designed to meet different needs and shoreline requirements. Here’s a look at our most popular models:

ShorePort

While the ShorePort is one of the lightest docking systems on the market at just 260 pounds, it has a standard capacity of 1,150 pounds and supplemental floatation, increasing it to 1,450 pounds. This allows it to support a range of PWC sizes. This jet ski dock also features three polyurethane rollers for smooth launching and loading. You can adjust the two mid-section rollers to accommodate varying PWC hull styles while the rear roller facilitates easy transitions from the water to storage. 

HydroPort Epic

The HydroPort Epic is perfect for today’s larger, more powerful PWCs. Its wider walkways and longer design create a more stable platform for launching and storing PWCs up to 2,000 pounds. The HydroPort Epic combines universal hull support, a patented “air pillow” bow bumper for the keel, and adjustable, dual in-line roller support with stainless steel roller axles for enhanced protection, compatibility, and strength. 

The HydroPort Epic’s anti-skid surface, increased size, and wider entry allow riders and their passengers to safely mount and dismount their PWCs, making it the most seamless load and launch of any drive on PWC dock on the market. 

HydroPort Extreme

Measuring 162 inches long and 58 inches wide, the HydroPort Extreme can support PWCs up to 1,625 pounds. But while it sits in the middle of the range in terms of capacity, the HydroPort Extreme boasts ultra-tough polyethylene construction with expanded polystyrene (EPS) marine foam for increased strength and leak elimination. It also features rollers you can adjust to accommodate different PWC models and stainless steel roller axles compatible with fresh, brackish, and saltwater. 

Easy on, easy off, and always ready for adventure. Contact us today and take the first step to enhancing your jet ski ownership experience.  

Installation and Maintenance 

ShoreMaster PWC floating docks are designed with the user in mind. Here’s an overview of how easy it is to add one to your setup:

• Assembly: Follow the instructions for assembling dock components. This involves connecting axles, rollers, and mooring brackets. Consider adding dock bumpers for enhanced protection, and don’t hesitate to contact your local dealer if anything seems unclear. 
• Placement: ShoreMaster jet ski ports have multiple connector options, allowing you to attach them from the front or the sides. We also have various anchoring kits for different dock setups and water conditions. When determining the best location for the PWC dock, consider accessibility and traffic. 

ShoreMaster PWC floating docks are constructed using top-grade materials to ensure their safety, durability, and ease of ownership. Once installed, regular inspections and occasional rinsing with soap and water are typically all you need to keep your dock in optimal condition. 

Customer Success Stories 

ShoreMaster's PWC floating docks have garnered positive feedback from customers who have experienced their benefits firsthand. Here’s a few of them:

• “A roller at the entry point made the step-up easy, and once in place, the Sea-Doo stayed put (Boating Magazine, 2009).” 
• “They’re roto-molded, and they have a huge stability advantage mainly due to the chambers underneath, which act as suction cups to give you better stability on the water.” – Chris of Brinson Marine
• “The ShorePort is capable of handling even the largest PWC, from our Sea-Doo Spark all the way up to our Sea-Doo RXT-X 300.” – A&E Motorsports LTD

Visit your local ShoreMaster dealer today to explore the best PWC docking system on the market. 

Choosing Your PWC Floating Dock 

To get the best fit for your needs, consider the following factors:

• PWC size and weight: A properly sized dock will provide better stability. If a dock is too small or not designed to handle a PWC's weight, it compromises the platform's stability and safety. 
• Water conditions: Consider factors like water type and wave action. For areas with rougher water conditions, the HydroPort and its robust construction is a great option. 

Still unsure what PWC dock is right for you? Contact us today, and we’ll help you find the perfect system for your needs. 

References:

• State of Michigan (n.d.). Docks, Boat Hoists, and Swim Rafts. Retrieved from Docks-Boat-Hoists-Swim-Raft-Handout.pdf (michigan.gov)
• Boating Magazine (January 13, 2009). How To Dock In A Day. Retrieved from https://www.boatingmag.com/how-to/dock-day/