Posted: December 19 2007 at 14:28 | IP Logged

I have a 1998 370DA and a Caribe 10'3" RIB with a 15 HP Merc. (weight 225lbs) and want to purchase and install a Dinghy "carrier". I have looked at Weaver, Hurley, and St Croix models from simple "tilt up" to more elaborate "lift up" rotating davits. Unfortunately I have no experience in hauling a dinghy and would appreciate any advice and/orPro's and Con's of one system vs. another. Price is a consideration but I am equally interested in getting a system that is functional and durable.

Thank you in advance for your help!

Bob

Posted: December 19 2007 at 18:52 | IP Logged

I have had various dingy davits from Weaver (which I have now) to very fancy (and expensive) Atkins & Hoyle davits www.atkinshoyle.com on a previous boat.

Although I need to handle the boat more, the Weaver davits are the simplest and most secure I have used.  I prefer to handle the boat and engine a bit more and know it is secure while underway rather than damage the boat or dingy with a poor system.

You may also want to look at: 

http://www.dinghyramp.com

Regards,

Jeff

Posted: December 19 2007 at 19:59 | IP Logged

Jeff:

Thank you for the response. Which weaver system do you use? The Weaver ARC system looks interesting to me. Also, the "dinghy ramp" website you sent looks good. I have emailed them to see if they have a demonstration video. It is very similar to the Hurley but seems to be more "advanced".

Again, I genuinely appreciate your advice.

Bob

Posted: January 04 2008 at 15:14 | IP Logged

Bob,

        I have a 390 express with the weaver snaps on my swim platform and love them as I haul a 10' Zodiac with a 10hp . the only issue is when I am out in the bay with a following sea doing less that 10-12 knots . Sometimes the waves smack it around a bit . For long distance (up and down the ICW or offshore ) I just haul it up on the foredeck and lash it down and stow the outboard in the eng. room on a bracket I made. Plus it helps when I am backing into a guest slip since judging distance can be a bit tricky. But other than that I love them for ease of use .

Posted: January 07 2008 at 07:48 | IP Logged

I finally decided on the Hurley davit. Thus far it seems to work well. We leave for the Keys on 1/10 for a few weeks and it will get a "real" test.

Thanks again for the advice!

Bob

Posted: June 14 2009 at 13:21 | IP Logged

Bob,

Are you still happy with your Hurley davit? We are considering getting one as well. Would be great to hear your about your experience!

Thanks!

Karin

Posted: June 15 2009 at 20:32 | IP Logged

Karin:

Absolutely! In the "inexpensive" category....under $1000....they have no equal. Easy to install and easy to remove. Launching our dinghy....11' Carib RIB w/ 15HP Merc..... is effortless. Reloading takes some effort but my wife and I, both over age 65, handle it with little problem. Pay attention to all Hurley instructions, put some thought into the weight distribution and hull form/shape of the dinghy vs. placement of davits on your swim platform and I think you will be as happy as we are with the system. The ease of carrying and using the dinghy has added an entire new level to our enjoyment of cruising and exploring new waterways.

Bob