Boat lift bunks are an essential part of any boat lift system. They are the supports that hold a boat securely in place while it is being lifted out of the water. The length of the bunks is an important factor to consider when choosing a boat lift system.
In this article, I will explore the relationship between boat size and bunk length, how long should boat lift bunks be, and more.
Explanation of Boat Lift Bunks
Boat lift bunks are typically made of wood, plastic, or metal and are designed to support the weight of a boat. They are usually spaced apart to match the width of the boat and are supported by the lift frame. The bunks provide a stable and secure platform for the boat to rest on while it is being lifted out of the water.
The size of the bunks is directly related to the size of the boat. Larger boats require longer bunks to ensure proper support and stability during the lifting process. It is essential to choose the right bunk length to avoid damage to the boat and ensure a safe and efficient lift.
Table for Boat Size vs. Bunk Length
Here is a table for you to understand what long should the boat lift bunks be for different sizes of boats.
Boat size (ft) | Bunk length (ft) |
10-15 | 8 |
16-20 | 10 |
21-25 | 12 |
26-30 | 14 |
31-35 | 16 |
36-40 | 18 |
41-45 | 20 |
46-50 | 22 |
51-55 | 24 |
How long should boat lift bunks be?

You can determine the length of the bunks required for supporting the boat on the trailer is determined by the amount of “flat” surface area present in the hull that can be adequately supported.
Also, there is a simple rule of thumb to follow. First, measure the distance from the front lower beam to the rear lower beam on your trailer. If this distance is over 10 feet, then you will want to invest in longer bunks for your boat trailer. On the other hand, if the distance is less than 10 feet, 12-foot bunks should be sufficient for your 23-foot bay boat.
Below I am explaining it in more detail.
Choosing the Right Bunk Length
Once you have determined the length of your boat, you can use the table above as a guide to choosing the right bunk length. It is important to choose a bunk that is long enough to support the entire length of the boat, but not so long that it extends beyond the lift frame.
Adjusting Bunks for Multiple Boats
If you plan to use the boat lift for multiple boats of different sizes, it may be necessary to adjust the bunks to accommodate each boat’s length. In this case, it is best to choose a bunk length that can be adjusted to fit a range of boat sizes.
Importance of Choosing the Right Bunk Size
Choosing the right bunk size is important for several reasons.
- First, it ensures that the boat is properly supported during the lifting process, which reduces the risk of damage to the hull or other parts of the boat.
- Second, it helps to distribute the weight of the boat evenly, which is important for maintaining the stability of the lift.
- Finally, it ensures that the boat is securely held in place, which is essential for safety.
Factors that Affect the Length of Boat Lift Bunks

Several factors can affect the length of boat lift bunks. These include boat size and type, water depth and tide range, lift capacity, and boat weight and distribution.
Boat Size and Type
The size and type of boat will determine the length of the bunks needed. Larger boats require longer bunks to provide proper support and stability.
Water Depth and Tide Range
The depth of the water and the range of tides can affect the length of the bunks needed. In shallow water or areas with a significant tidal range, boaters may need to use longer bunks to ensure proper support of the boat at all times..
Boat Lift Capacity
The lift capacity of the boat lift system will also affect the length of the bunks needed. If the lift capacity cannot support the weight of the boat, boaters may need to use longer bunks to distribute the weight evenly and prevent damage to the lift system.. So, it’s better for you if you know how to measure the lift capacity of a boat lift.
Boat Weight and Distribution
The weight and distribution of the boat are also important factors to consider when choosing the right bunk length. If the weight of the boat is not evenly distributed, it can cause instability during the lifting process, which can lead to damage or accidents
It is important to ensure that the bunks are long enough to support the entire length of the boat and that they are positioned to distribute the weight evenly.
So, that’s all about how long should boat lift bunks be. I hope you have o more confusion. However, before saying bye bye here is another article for you – Problem of Blue Wave Boat