Equipment

Travel Lift

A travel lift is a type of yacht lifting equipment. Designed specifically for the launching, hauling, and maintenance of yachts, boats, and various small-to-medium-sized vessels, this specialized handling equipment is widely used at yacht marinas, shipyards, repair centers, and luxury yacht berthing areas. Featuring a high-strength steel structure and a flexible sling system, the equipment ensures stable and efficient lifting and transport while safeguarding the hull.

  • Lifting Capacity: 30 t – 300 t
  • Span: 3 m – 25 m
  • Lifting Height: 3 m – 20 m

A travel lift (also known as a yacht mobile lift or marine travel lift) is a self-propelled boat travel lift. This equipment is specifically designed for marina and shipyard environments, enabling users to perform vessel lifting, handling, and launching operations. VOITTO’s travel lift crane series offers standard lifting capacities ranging from 30 to 300 tons—with custom configurations available up to 1,200 tons—and features span options ranging from 3 meters to over 25 meters, with a lifting height of up to 20 meters. This series of equipment complies with international standards such as CE, ISO 9927-3, FEM 1.001, and EN 13135 and is widely used in commercial yacht marinas, naval facilities, and yacht refit yards worldwide.

What is a Travel Lift?

A travel lift is a mobile lifting device. Classified under the EN 13001-1 standard, it uses electric rubber-tired wheels to traverse above the hull, lifts the hull out of the water using polyester slings, and transports it to various locations within the shipyard at speeds of up to 5 km/h.

Unlike fixed boat hoists, a marine travel lift requires no permanent runway structure, allowing yard operators to position vessels anywhere in the compound. The drive system uses hydrostatic transmission on all four corners, with steering modes including crab, coordinated, and independent four-wheel configurations. As a result, maneuvering precision in tight yard corridors typically reaches ±50 mm.

The VOITTO boat travel lift series features a fully welded, high-strength S355 structural steel frame. Each sling winch is equipped with a dual-redundant hydraulic braking system, and the control architecture is based on Siemens or Schneider PLCs. As a result, operators can monitor the load in real time via certified load cells (C3 accuracy class in accordance with EN 45501) and an onboard SCADA display.

TYPES AND VARIANTS

VOITTO has divided its yacht crane series into four standard product lines, each optimized for specific ship types and shipyard layouts, with lifting capacities ranging from 30 tons to over 1,200 tons.

ModelDetails
Travel Lift-Compact (30–80 T)Span 3 m – 12 m. Designed for small marinas handling sailboats and motorboats up to 24 m LOA. Narrow frame enables operation in confined single-lane channels.
Yacht Crane-Standard (80–200 T)Span 10 m – 18 m. The most widely deployed variant for mid-size recreational and commercial vessels. Available with diesel-hydraulic or full-electric drive.
Marine Travel Lift-Wide (200–300 T)Span 16 m – 25 m. Configured for large motoryachts, patrol vessels, and work boats. Dual-sling beam arrangement distributes load per FEM 1.001 group M5.
Travel Lift Boat-Super (300–1,200 T)Spans of over 25 meters. Custom-designed for superyachts, offshore engineering vessels, and naval ships. Finite element analysis (FEA) structural certification is provided for each project.

Key Features

The VOITTO boat mobile lift meets a wide range of safety and productivity standards. Each of which is verified before delivery in accordance with the EN 13135 and FEM 1.001 design standards.

  • Hydrostatic Drive System: Variable-displacement axial piston pumps are installed at all four corners, enabling stepless speed control from 0 to 5 km/h, thereby eliminating impact loads on the hull during gear changes.
  • Polyester Sling Assembly: Flat-eye slings compliant with ISO 6405-2 are used, with a minimum safety factor of 7:1. The sling angle load compensation function is automatically calculated and adjusted by the PLC system.
  • Overload Protection: Each lifting point is equipped with dual load cells (compliant with EN 45501). An audible and visual alarm is triggered when the load reaches 90% of the safe working load (SWL), and the winch automatically stops when it reaches 110%.
  • Independent Four-wheel Steering System: Offers three steering modes—“crab,” “coordinated,” and “independent”—enabling precise lateral positioning within ±50 mm, even in narrow aisles as narrow as the span plus 800 mm.
  • Fully Electric Option: Utilizes a zero-emission, fully electric drive system combined with regenerative braking technology to recover up to 18% of lifting potential energy. Particularly suitable for enclosed or noise-sensitive yacht marina environments.
  • Remote Diagnostics: An onboard 4G/Wi-Fi gateway transmits real-time hydraulic pressure, motor temperature, and historical load data to the equipment cloud platform to generate predictive maintenance alerts.

Application

Thanks to their reliable lifting capacity and excellent maneuverability, users employ yacht mobile cranes to perform lifting operations in the following scenarios.

  • Launching and Hauling Out: Users employ this equipment to lower yachts into the water from the dock or hoist them back onto land.
  • Hull Maintenance: Maintenance personnel use this equipment for painting, anti-corrosion treatment, cleaning, and mechanical repairs after the vessel has been taken out of the water.
  • Onshore Boat Transport: Users employ this equipment to move boats within shipyards, docks, or storage areas.
  • Long-Term Yacht Storage: Users utilize yacht cranes to hoist yachts onto land for long-term storage and protection.
  • New Vessel Construction and Delivery: Shipyard operators use it to lift and transport newly built vessels during the production, commissioning, and delivery phases.
  • Operations in Confined Docks: Users utilize it for agile maneuvering and precise movement within docks or shipyards with limited space.
  • Handling of Large-Tonnage Vessels: Operators use it to safely lift and transport large yachts, multihulls, and heavy vessels.
  • Emergency Rescue Vessel Deployment: Users employ it for the rapid launching and deployment of emergency vessels such as rescue boats and patrol boats.
  • High-End Yacht Management: Users utilize it for the high-standard handling, mooring, and maintenance management of luxury yachts.
  • Ship Export Logistics: Users control this equipment to execute the loading, transshipment, and logistics transportation processes for vessels destined for export.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

All performance data below reflects standard factory configurations.

ParameterStandard RangeCustom / Notes
Lifting Capacity (SWL)30 t – 300 tCustomizable, up to 1,200 tons.
Span — Small Yachts3 m – 15 mSuitable for vessels up to ~15 m LOA
Span — Mid / Large Yachts15 m – 25 mMotoryachts, patrol craft, catamarans
Span — Superyachts25 m+Custom FEA structural analysis per EN 13001-3
Lifting Height3 m – 20 mMeasured from ground to sling hook point
Travel Speed (laden)0 – 5 km/hStepless hydrostatic control
Hoisting Speed0 – 3 m/minVariable, load-dependent
Drive SystemDiesel-hydraulic / Full-electricHybrid option available; ATEX on request
Steering ModesCrab / Coordinated / 4-Wheel IndependentSelected via cab or remote pendant
Sling Quantity2 – 4 slings standard6-sling configuration for >300 t models
Sling Safety Factor7:1 (ISO 6405-2)Polyester flat-eye; anti-abrasion sleeve std.
Load MonitoringC3-class load cells (EN 45501)Alarm at 90% SWL; cut-out at 110% SWL
Structural GradeS355 high-strength steelHot-dip galvanised, or marine-grade paint option.
FEM Duty GroupM4 – M6Matched to annual lift cycles at commissioning
Operating Temperature-20 °C to +50 °CArctic package to -40 °C available

Travel Lift Parts

A boat marine travel lift mainly consists of a gantry structure, a lifting system, a traveling mechanism, a hydraulic system, a control system, a power system, nylon ropes, and safety devices. These components work together to lift and move the vessel.

travel lift parts
  • Gantry Structure: The gantry structure provides overall support and spanning space for the boat hoist.
  • Lifting System: The lifting system uses a nylon rope, pulleys, and lifting mechanisms to raise the hull.
  • Travelling Mechanism: The walking mechanism consists of a multi-wheel drive and a steering device.
  • Hydraulic System: The hydraulic system provides power for lifting, steering, and driving.
  • Control System: The operator controls the entire equipment via the cab or remote control.
  • Power System: The power system drives the lifting, walking, and hydraulic operation of the equipment.
  • Nylon Rope: As a flexible load-bearing component, nylon rope evenly distributes the stress on the hull.
  • Safety Devices: Include limit switches, overload protection, and an emergency stop.

Travel Lift for Sale

VOITTO Crane is a specialized manufacturer dedicated to providing heavy-duty lifting solutions for the marine, industrial, and infrastructure markets. With a steadfast commitment to engineering precision and operational reliability, VOITTO is dedicated to designing, manufacturing, and commissioning a wide range of overhead and gantry cranes, travel lift systems, and port-handling equipment for our customers.

Every product shipped from our factory comes with complete CE technical documentation and a factory load test certificate, and is assigned a dedicated after-sales service contact. Our engineering team works closely with port authorities, classification societies, and terminal operators to ensure that every boat travel lift crane integrates seamlessly into its actual operating environment. If you require a yacht crane solution, please feel free to contact us at any time.

Alan

Alan

Crane Solutions Specialist · Voitto Crane

10+Years Exp.
5,000+Customers
50+Countries

Specialized in Overhead Crane, Gantry Crane, Jib Crane, Port Crane & EOT Crane export solutions. 10+ years helping global clients with pre-sales consultation, capacity selection and site-specific configurations.

FAQ

What is the maximum lifting capacity of a travel lift?

Standard production models cover 30 t to 300 t SWL. However, the custom-engineered line extends capacity to 1,200 t for superyachts and offshore vessels.

How do I select the correct span for my marina?

The choice of span depends on the widest vessel your shipyard can handle, and you must allow for at least 800 millimeters of clearance on either side to accommodate the slings. Therefore, if the dock is primarily used for launching motorboats with a beam of 10 meters, a span of 12 to 13 meters is typically specified.

Can a travel lift operate on unpaved or sloped surfaces?

Yes, VOITTO travel lifts tolerate gradients up to 4% (laden) and 8% (unladen), provided the surface bearing capacity meets the wheel-load specification in the commissioning report. Therefore, most compacted gravel and asphalt yards are suitable; however, soft or waterlogged ground typically requires concrete aprons under the wheel paths to distribute point loads.

Which certification standard applies to travel lift slings?

We supply polyester flat-eye slings certified to ISO 6405-2 with a minimum 7:1 safety factor. Slings are color-coded by capacity per EN 1492-1, inspected at 12-month intervals, and replaced at the first sign of abrasion or UV degradation. Anti-abrasion sleeves are standard on all models above 80 t SWL.

Is a full-electric travel lift a practical replacement for diesel-hydraulic units?

VOITTO’s full-electric TL Series delivers equivalent hoisting torque via permanent-magnet drive motors, reduces operational noise by approximately 12 dB(A), and eliminates exhaust emissions on enclosed docks. Moreover, regenerative hoisting recovers up to 18% of energy during lowering cycles, cutting annual electricity costs measurably.

Qualification and Honor

Engineered Strength, Global Crane Supplier

service

Exclusive and Considerable, Customer First.
01
Reliable and Customized Solutions

Our pre-sale team provides consultations, tailoring solutions to your needs and environment.

Offer customization options for lifting capacity, span and lifting height etc. to meet specific needs.

02
Updated Production Process

Real-Time Progress Updates: Weekly reports and PM communication.

Pre-Delivery Testing: 100% load & safety checks, detailed reports.

03
Trustworthy After-Sale Support

3-5 years warranty and free replacement for non-manufacturing defects.

24/7 online support and on-site assistance for crane issues.

FAQ

Engineered Strength, Global Crane Supplier
Are mobile hoist cranes suitable for outdoor use?

Mobile hoist cranes can be used outdoors if designed with weather-resistant materials and proper surface conditions. For outdoor applications, features such as corrosion-resistant coatings, durable wheels, and stable braking systems are important.

Are you a manufacturer or supplier?

VIOTTO is a heavy duty lifting scissor platform manufacturer and supplier, providing factory-direct solutions and custom options.

Can it be customized?

Yes, lifting capacity, span, height, structure type, and hoist options can be customized to match specific working conditions.

Can it be used indoors?

Yes, most Warehouse Lift Platform models are designed for indoor warehouse and industrial environments.

Can mobile hoist cranes be customized for specific applications?

Yes, most manufacturers offer customized mobile hoist cranes to meet specific operational needs. Custom options include adjustable height, span width, load capacity, wheel type, and hoist configuration. We specialize in tailored lifting solutions, helping global clients adapt equipment to local working conditions and unique project demands.

Get In Touch

Please feel free to leave a message. We will reply in 24 hours.
Please specify your requirement by referring to the following aspects:
  • Which crane product do you need?
  • What is the maximum lifting capacity (in tons) required for your project?
  • Could you specify the lifting height (in meters) needed?
  • Can you provide details on the working environment, such as ground conditions, space limitations, and any obstacles?
  • What is the expected frequency of use and the duration of the project?
Contact Form

related products

Precision Power, Customization Crane Solution.
boat lift gantry crane
Boat Lift Gantry Crane
  • Lifting capacity: 50 ~ 300 ton
  • Span: 9 ~ 16 m
  • Lifting height: 5 ~ 25 m
boat-jib-crane-20t-30t-40t-freestanding
Boat Jib Crane
  • Capacity: 20T – 40T
  • Boom Length: 9,100 – 10,300 mm
  • Lifting Height: 7,000 – 7,450 mm
shipyard gantry crane
Shipyard Gantry Crane
  • Lifting Capacity: 100 ~ 2000 tons
  • Span: 50 ~ 185 m
  • Lifting Height: 29.5 ~ 78 m

related news

Engineered Strength, Global Crane Supplier
18
2025-05
What is a Boat Travel Lift?

The boat travel lift cranes are designed specifically for the Repair and maintenance of boats, as well as moving and lifting yachts, fishing boats, and small vessels on land. A boat travel lift, with its stable lifting structure, is widely used in docks, shipyards, and yacht clubs etc. Next, this article will provide a detailed introduction to the meaning, parts, working principles, features, advantages, and application scenarios of boat hoists. Please continue reading. What is a Yacht Travel Lift? The yacht travel lift comprises an adjustable U-shaped gantry structure, flexible slings, and a hydraulic lifting system. Users control it to safely lift and smoothly move the vessel to a designated location, enabling operations from water to land and from land to water. VOITTO yacht Crane manufacturers can customize the yacht crane to meet different vessel widths and tonnages based on user requirements. A boat travel lift is ideal equipment for port and shipyard operations, and is also key to improving operational efficiency. Proper selection, standardized operation, and timely maintenance can not only extend vessel lifespan but also reduce accidents and…

13
2026-03
Cranes for Ports: Types, Prices & Applications

Port cranes are the backbone of global maritime trade, handling millions of containers and bulk cargo daily at ports worldwide. Whether you are upgrading existing port infrastructure, constructing new terminals, or evaluating different types of cranes used in ports, this article provides valuable reference information. This comprehensive guide provides terminal operators, port authorities, and procurement professionals with detailed insights into cranes for ports. You’ll learn about different port crane types, operational capabilities, pricing considerations, and selection criteria that ensure your equipment investment delivers maximum throughput and ROI. How Do Port Cranes Work? The basic working principle of a port crane is to use an electric motor-driven wire rope to lift cargo. The trolley moves horizontally along the bridge or boom, positioning the cargo on the working span. Modern port cranes are equipped with advanced control systems that enable precise load positioning, anti-sway technology, and automated container loading and unloading. Operators work in a well-ventilated, enclosed cab with excellent visibility. Sophisticated sensors monitor load weight, position, and structural stress to ensure safe operation. Power systems typically utilize shore-based electrical supply, eliminating…

Top