Frequently Asked Questions
Answers from the team that designed and built these parts since 1994.
Our dinghy hauler davit systems are designed to carry an inflatable dinghy on the swim step of a power or sail boat. They eliminate the need to tow the dinghy behind the boat or haul it up on deck. No gluing of fittings to the inflatable — stainless steel C-ring retainers cradle the dinghy without permanent attachment.
Both systems use the same C-ring retainer and mounting approach. The Fixed Position Dinghy Hauler Davits ($248 CAD) are the standard version — the dinghy is secured in the cradle and released by hand. The Quick Release version ($595 CAD) adds a quick-release mechanism that allows you to detach the dinghy rapidly without tools. If you use your dinghy frequently and need fast deployment, the Quick Release is worth the additional investment.
Our davit systems are rated for a maximum dinghy weight of 300 lb. The retainers accommodate inflatable tubes up to 16″ in diameter (most common size). We also offer a large version for tubes up to 17″ diameter. Contact us if you have an unusually large or heavy dinghy.
They are optional accessories but often recommended. The Adjustable Stand-off Bars keep the dinghy upright on the swim step rather than leaning to one side. The Dinghy Davits Extension moves the davit mounting points 12″ further outboard, which is useful if your swim step is too close to the hull for comfortable dinghy clearance. Most customers doing a complete installation will add both.
We offer three brackets: the Dinghy Swivel Outboard Motor Bracket (for inflatables and hard-shell dinghies — lets you keep the motor mounted and swivel it horizontal for storage), the High Thrust Outboard Motor Bracket (for 9.9 HP high-thrust four-stroke motors mounted on the transom), and the Swim Step Motor Bracket (for motors up to 140 lb mounted on the swim step). Use the reinforcement plates with any motor bracket installation.
The 4:1 Lift Assist is a pulley system that reduces the physical effort needed to hoist the dinghy into the vertical position. Using two marine grade pulleys and 8mm cord, it provides a 4:1 mechanical advantage — meaning you only need to exert ¼ of the lifting force. It works with all Captain Jigger C-ring davit systems and is particularly useful when the motor is still attached to the dinghy.
No. The Captain Jigger davit system uses stainless steel C-ring retainers that cradle the inflatable tube — no permanent attachment, no gluing. The dinghy can be removed from the system without any modifications to the boat.
Our manufactured parts — davit systems, motor brackets, propeller guards, stand-off bars, and extension pieces — are constructed from marine grade stainless steel and electropolished for extra corrosion protection. Mounting hardware is also stainless steel. Third-party accessories (ropes, hooks, fuel tanks) vary by manufacturer — refer to individual product pages for material details.
Yes. We provide fast and easy worldwide shipping. We ship our marine parts internationally, insured against damage and loss. Tracking codes are provided. Products are delivered through Canada Post. Shipping rates and delivery estimates are calculated at checkout based on your location.
Orders are typically processed within 1–3 business days. Domestic delivery within Canada: 4–10 business days depending on your province. International shipping times vary by destination — typically 7–21 business days. These are estimates, not guarantees. Contact us for specific international shipping estimates.
We offer a 30-day return policy on all items in original condition. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, contact us within 30 days of delivery at info@captainjigger.com with your order number and reason for return. Items should be unused and in original packaging. See our Returns page for the full process.
Contact us at info@captainjigger.com as soon as possible with your order number and photos of the damage. We will arrange a replacement or full refund including shipping costs. We pack our products carefully, but damage during transit does occasionally happen and we stand behind every order.
Yes. Our knowledgeable staff are available to answer installation questions by phone or email. Call us at 1-604-245-3834 or email info@captainjigger.com. Each product also includes written installation instructions.
