Hurley Davits: The Ultimate Guide for Boat Owners by Meridian Outboard

What Are Hurley Davits?

Hurley Davits are specialised davit systems designed for lifting, storing and launching tenders, rigid/hard dinghies, inflatables, jet skis, and occasionally outboards. They are engineered to attach to or integrate with swim platforms or stern platforms, often offering features such as winches, cradles, chocks, and adjustable rollers to assist with smooth deployment and retrieval. Their build is typically robust—using marine‑grade stainless steel, HDPE (high density polyethylene) or other corrosion‑resistant materials.

Hurley Marine has been expanding its presence in Europe, with distributors in Benelux, Germany, Spain, Turkey, Greece, Scandinavia etc., which has increased availability and after‑sales support locally. Marine Industry News+2Marine Industry News+2

Key Advantages of Using Hurley Davits

Benefit	What You Gain
Effortless Tender / Jet Ski Handling	Reduces manual lifting; hydraulic/electric winch models enable one‑person operation. Saves time and strain.
Space‑Saving & Clean Deck Layout	When not in use, many Hurley Davits fold or stow neatly, freeing up swim platform space.
Protection for Equipment	Properly cradled tenders and outboards are less exposed to damage from wave slamming, docking impacts, or UV/salt corrosion.
Increased Safety	Lower risk of injury when launching or retrieving heavy tenders; safer for crew, swimmers, pets.
Durability & Build Quality	High‑grade materials, designed for marine environments; more reliable over time.
Value for Money in the Long Run	Lower repair costs, less wear and tear, more resale value for boats with well‑maintained gear.

Things to Consider / Potential Drawbacks

Cost & Budget: Higher upfront cost, especially for winch/electric models.
Load Capacity vs Tender/Outboard Weight: Need to ensure the davit’s capacity comfortably exceeds the weight of your tender + outboard + accessories. Overloads reduce safety and lifespan.
Platform Size & Structural Strength: Swim platform must be strong enough; mounting points must be reinforced. Clearance and geometry matter.
Corrosion, UV & Marine Exposure: Even with stainless steel/HDPE, salt, surf, and constant exposure will affect parts; maintenance is required.
Maintenance & Use: Regular inspection, lubrication, cleaning, and ensuring moving parts are free of barnacles or seaweed.
Regulatory / Insurance Concerns: Some ports, marinas or insurance policies may have rules about load positions, overhangs, or safety equipment visibility.

How to Choose the Right Hurley Davit for Your Boat

Here’s a guide to picking a Hurley Davit system that matches your needs:

Determine Your Load
- Combine the weight of your tender + outboard + fuel + accessories.
- Choose a davit rated higher (e.g. 20‑30% margin) for safe lifting.
Check Platform / Mounting Area
- Measure swim platform depth (transom to back edge), width, and structural strength.
- Ensure there’s room for mounting hardware, winch, rollers/cradles etc.
Decide on Manual vs Winch / Electric
- Manual davits are simpler, cheaper, fewer parts to fail.
- Winch or electric‑assist models give ease, especially with heavier loads or frequent use.
Material & Corrosion Resistance
- Stainless steel (316 if possible), HDPE rollers, marine‑grade fasteners.
- Consider finish: polished, anodised, powder coated etc.
Ease of Use & Ergonomics
- Adjustable chocks, cradles, roller alignment, angle of launch/retrieval.
- How much space the davit swings or folds into; snag hazards or interference with other equipment.
After Sales Service & Spare Parts
- Availability of replacement parts in the UK / EU (rollers, winch parts, cables).
- Warranty, support from dealer/distributor near you (Meridian Outboard Motors can help here).

UK / Europe GEO Considerations

Climatic Conditions: Salt water, cold winters, UV exposure — Hurley Davits’ materials should resist rust & degrade.
Local Distributor Presence: Hurley has distributors across Europe — meaning better service, compliance, and faster parts/repairs. Marine Industry News+2Marine Industry News+2
Regulatory & Insurance Requirements: UK marinas or coastal authorities may have safety regulations; also insurance may require secure stowage of tenders, official loading specs.
Shipping & Import Costs: Buying through a local distributor (or UK stockist) can reduce shipping, VAT, and import delays.
Resale Value: Boats fitted with recognised brand davits (Hurley) often command higher value, especially when condition is good.

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FAQs — Hurley Davits

Here are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Hurley Davits specifically, with answers tailored for Meridian Outboard Motors customers.

Q1: What is the weight capacity of Hurley Davits, and how do I know which capacity I need?
A: Hurley Davit systems come with rated load capacities that vary by model (manual, winch, electric). To choose, total the weight of your tender + outboard + fuel + any gear. Then add a safety margin (typically around 20‑30%) so you aren’t operating at the maximum continuously.

Q2: Do Hurley Davits require special mounting or structural reinforcement?
A: Yes. The swim platform or stern should be structurally sound, with sufficient bearing points. Often reinforcement is needed where bolts anchor in. Meridian Outboard Motors can assess your platform or recommend mounting solutions.

Q3: Are electric winch models worth the extra cost?
A: If you use the tender frequently, have a heavier tender/outboard, or struggle with manual lifting, then yes — electric or winch‑assist models significantly reduce effort and risk. For occasional use or lighter tenders, manual units may suffice.

Q4: What maintenance do Hurley Davits need to stay safe and durable?
A: Key maintenance includes: rinsing with fresh water after saltwater exposure, checking fasteners and bolts for corrosion, greasing or oiling moving parts (rollers/chains/winch), inspecting the structural parts for cracks or fatigue, checking cables or straps, replacing worn chocks or pads, and ensuring the winch mechanism works smoothly.

Q5: Will fitting a Hurley Davit affect my insurance or boat certification?
A: It can. Many insurers or boating authorities want safety gear to be properly secured, rated for load etc. If you fit a davit, ensure documentation (load rating, installation specifications) is available. Meridian Outboard Motors can provide those docs if you buy through us.

Q6: How difficult is the installation of a Hurley Davit? Can I do it myself?
A: It depends on your boat and platform. Some installations are straightforward, using pre‑drilled mounting points, while others require structural reinforcing, aligning welds or bolts, routing cables, possibly electrical wiring for powered models. If unsure, professional installation is advised. We offer fitting services and support in UK/Europe for Hurley products.

Conclusion

Hurley Davits offer a premium, durable, and highly usable solution for boat owners who want to make launching and storing tenders or jet skis easier, safer, and more efficient. At Meridian Outboard Motors, we believe investing in the right davit enhances your overall boating experience, protects your gear, and adds long‑term value. If you’re considering a Hurley davit, get in touch—we can help you pick the right model, assess mount compatibility, source spares, and ensure installation is done to best practice.