The annual maintenance program for yachts encompasses both machine maintenance, such as propellers, generators, and air-conditioning systems, and hull maintenance, which involves lifting the entire vessel out of the water.

Choosing the appropriate method for lifting yachts in and out of the water is crucial, and Western European marinas typically rely on mobile cranes for this task.

In fact, mobile cranes are the preferred choice for approximately 99% of marinas worldwide, owing to their versatility and efficiency. The history of yacht cranes dates back to the 1970s when they first emerged as indispensable tools for marina services. Since then, they have become ubiquitous in marinas globally, offering a reliable means of launching and disembarking medium and large yachts. With nearly 40 years of worldwide use, yacht cranes have proven their reliability, stability, and effectiveness in handling various lifting tasks.

The design of yacht cranes revolves around three key points:

Load Capacity, Precision Lifting, and Non-Extrusive Holding. Yacht cranes are designed to handle loads that exceed 120% of their rated load capacity. This safety measure ensures that even if the weight of the yacht is misjudged, the crane will not be forced to lift beyond its capacity, thereby averting accidents caused by overloading. Yacht cranes feature independently controllable lifting points, allowing for precise positioning according to the yacht's lifting points. This design facilitates accurate and safe operations, as each lifting point can be adjusted independently to control the sling's distance and the hull's level. Yacht cranes utilize a holding-type lifting method that minimizes contact with the hull, thus avoiding any potential damage or deformation. Unlike conventional single-boom cranes, yacht cranes lift the hull without exerting pressure, ensuring the yacht's integrity remains intact throughout the lifting process.

In addition to these key design features, yacht cranes offer several advantages over alternative lifting methods. They do not occupy row positions, resulting in minimal disruption to marina operations and low costs for berth rental. Their movable boat frames simplify construction and maintenance tasks, while their small support contact area eliminates the need for repositioning, ensuring swift and efficient lifting operations.

While yacht cranes are the preferred choice for many marinas, several alternative lifting methods exist:

Rotating Boom, Ramp-Type Yacht Hoist, and Rail-Type Chute Towing. The rotating boom method offers flexibility in boom position but poses higher safety risks compared to yacht cranes. The ramp-type yacht hoist, more suitable for small and medium-sized yachts, involves using a ramp for lifting and offers simplicity but may not be as efficient for larger vessels. Rail-type chute towing, a traditional method involving towing the yacht ashore using a rail-type chute, is cumbersome, time-consuming, and less efficient compared to modern lifting methods.

The choice of lifting method for yachts depends on various factors, including yacht size, marina infrastructure, and safety considerations. While yacht cranes remain the preferred choice for their reliability, precision, and efficiency, alternative methods may be suitable depending on specific requirements and constraints. Ultimately, selecting the right lifting method is essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of both the yacht and the marina facilities.