Superyacht Tenders
Davits, Lifts & Cranes
Launch and recovery systems engineered to the tender, not the catalogue
Request QuoteDavit, Lift and Crane Specification for Bespoke Tender Programmes
Every tender garage is a one-off geometry problem. Steelhead's stainless cranes, Opacmare's hydraulic platforms, Besenzoni's compact passerelle systems, and Nautical Structures' yard-integrated platforms each suit different deck layouts, SWL envelopes and aesthetic intent. We work with naval architects and yards to size the system to the actual tender — not the other way round — and coordinate hydraulic, electrical and structural integration so the launch sequence is calm in a sea state, not just on paper.
Systems We Specify
Hydraulic Davits
Powerful, smooth-operating davits for tender weights 2–10 tonnes, fully integrated with yacht hydraulics
Telescopic Cranes
Extended-reach cranes for large tenders, chase boats, and water toy deployment
Platform Lifts
Tender garage platforms with integrated lift mechanisms for compact storage solutions
Swim Platform Lifts
Hydraulic platforms for water sports equipment access and crew transfer convenience
Passerelle Systems
Electrically operated boarding systems with safety railings and anti-slip surfaces
Electric Davit Options
Quieter, low-maintenance alternatives to hydraulic systems with wireless controls
How to Specify
Provide These Details
- Tender weight (in tonnes) when fully loaded with fuel and equipment
- Tender length overall (LOA) and beam for stowage dimensions
- Required safe working load (SWL) with safety factor applied
- Mounting location on superyacht (davit gantry, crane pedestal, garage rails)
- Hydraulic or electric preference and available power budget
- Reach requirement and vertical lift height from water to storage level
Recent Briefs
Opacmare hydraulic tender davit (6-tonne class)
Hydraulic davit system rated to 6 tonnes with integrated tender guide rails
Besenzoni Crane System
Electric telescopic crane for 10+ tonne tenders and large water toys
Nautical Structures Platform Lift
Garage-mounted tender platform with integrated hydraulic lift
Custom Davit Specification
Bespoke davit design for unique mounting location or tender configuration
Swim Platform Extension
Hydraulic extension platform for water sports and crew boarding
Passerelle Installation
Automatic boarding system with integrated power and safety controls
Tender Hoist Motor Upgrade
Replacement hydraulic or electric motor for existing davit system
Remote Control Davit System
Wireless remote operation for safe, coordinated tender deployment
Load Testing & Certification
Professional load testing and SWL certification for new or retrofitted systems
Davit Guide Rail Kit
Replacement guide rails and bearing assemblies for smooth tender alignment
Emergency Manual Operation
Hand-pump backup system for davit operation in power loss scenarios
Tender Safety Net System
Retractable safety nets for davit and platform deployment protection
Hydraulic Hose & Fitting Kit
Complete davit hydraulic system refresh with pressure-tested hoses
Integration with Yacht Control System
Davit automation and monitoring through integrated yacht network
Commissioning & Crew Training
Complete installation, testing, and operator familiarisation services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between hydraulic and electric davits?
Hydraulic davits are powerful, reliable, and integrate with existing yacht hydraulics. Electric davits are quieter, require less maintenance, and offer wireless control. Choice depends on yacht infrastructure and operational preferences.
How do I calculate the required SWL for my davit?
SWL must equal or exceed the fully-loaded tender weight, with a 10–20% dynamic factor for sea-state allowance. The 4:1 ratio applies between SWL and ultimate breaking strength, not between SWL and tender weight. Example: a 5-tonne tender requires SWL ≥ 5 tonnes (typically 5.5–6 tonnes with dynamic factor). Always consult engineers for your specific configuration.
Can davits be retrofitted to existing superyachts?
Yes, davits can be retrofitted. Engineering assessment required to evaluate deck structure, load paths, and hydraulic/electrical routing. Retrofit costs typically 20–40% higher than new-build installations.
What maintenance does a davit system require?
Annual inspection, hydraulic fluid testing (for hydraulic systems), bearing lubrication, and pressure checks. Electric systems require motor inspection and electrical safety testing every 2 years.
How long does davit installation typically take?
New-build integration: 2–4 weeks. Retrofit to existing yacht: 4–8 weeks depending on structure modifications and integration complexity.
Are davits certified to international standards?
Yes, all professional davit systems comply with DNV, ABS, or equivalent marine classification standards. Load testing and certification documentation provided with every installation.
What happens if hydraulics fail during tender deployment?
All hydraulic davits include emergency manual override pumps. Operators can safely lower tenders using manual hand pumps even in complete hydraulic failure scenarios.
Can davits be automated for remote operation?
Yes, modern davits can be fully automated with wireless remote controls, smartphone apps, and integration with yacht control systems for safe, coordinated single-operator deployment.
Ready to Specify a Davit System?
Our davit and lift specialists will design the optimal tender deployment system for your superyacht. Contact us with your tender specifications and deck constraints for a detailed engineering quote.