RNYC provides a boat lift for the use of its members, which can be used to lift yachts in and out of the water. A temporary lift and hold is currently not available.
The lift is in operated by a team of volunteer members, and you will need to contact one of our volunteer hoist operators to organise use of the lift. They are listed with telephone numbers on a board on the container beside the hoist. We will endeavour to accommodate your requirements. Some lifting requests may not be possible dependent on the availability of our volunteers. The more notice you give, the better your chances!
Booking
To book a hoist lift, speak to a hoist driver to arrange a mutually convenient time. Names and contact details can be found in the Club Yearbook.
Cradles and trailers
Before you lift, liaise with your hoist driver for a cradle, trailer or yard space to park your boat. Members with their own cradles/trailers should ensure they are safe and ready to receive the boat. This includes making sure that props are complete, and that a space in the yard is available. Members without cradles or trailers should arrange with the hoist driver for the use of a club cradle.
Boat preparation
Members should have lifting points clearly marked on their boats, visible from both above and below deck level. It is the boat owners responsibility to ensure that the slings are correctly positioned. Fenders should be kept away from the lifting points. Foresails should always be removed. All sails should be removed for winter or long term storage. Check with the hoist driver as to whether forestay or backstay should be removed prior to lifting.
Mast removal
If a mast lift is requested, while you are still on your mooring ensure that bottle screws on lower shrouds are slackened, and that all through-deck cables, fittings and booms are removed. Please have the tools needed to remove the mast close to hand. During the lifting operation the boat crew is responsible for removing standing rigging, following the hoist driver’s instructions. It is recommended that a minimum of two crew should be on board.
Lifting
There should to be at least two people on board the boat to handle the mooring lines. Lifejackets should be worn. When in the hoist dock the hoist crew will throw lines to the boat. It is vital that you follow the instructions of the hoist driver and banksman. Please arrive at the hoist dock at the agreed time.
It is the skipper’s responsibility to ensure the that boat is secure on its cradle/trailer and able to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Please remember that the hoist drivers and banksmen are all volunteers and should be treated with respect at all times. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are prepared before your lift.
Boat lifts are only available to Royal Northumberland Yacht Club members. Members of the Boat Lift Loan Scheme or Boat Lift Bonds Scheme may be entitled to discounts as indicated by their scheme membership documents.
Payment is required within 7 days of the lift. You will be invoiced by our accounts assistant Kristina Fullerton.
RNYC have cradles available for short term hire. Should you require use of these please inform the Boat lift driver at the time of arranging the lift.
