Hatch Lifts

What Are Hatch Lifts and Why Do They Matter?

Hatch lifts are support mechanisms designed to hold boat and RV hatches open safely, assist with lifting heavy covers, and prevent dangerous uncontrolled closures. Hatch lifts come in several forms — gas struts (also called gas springs or gas shocks), electromechanical actuators, support springs, and hydraulic systems — each suited to different hatch weights and access requirements.

Whether you're accessing a storage compartment under the deck, opening an engine hatch on a powerboat, or reaching into a cockpit locker, a properly rated hatch lift makes the job safer and easier. As any boater knows, there are few things more frustrating — or more dangerous — than a heavy fiberglass hatch coming down without warning. On vessels with young passengers on board, an unsupported hatch can pose a serious safety risk.

How Hatch Lifts Work

The most common type of marine hatch lift is the gas strut or gas spring. These pressurized cylinders exert constant outward force, actively helping to lift the hatch as it opens while also providing a controlled, soft-close feel that prevents slamming. Because gas springs exert constant force, a correctly sized strut requires deliberate effort to close — adding an important safety margin. Force ratings for marine gas springs typically range from 5 lbs. to over 120 lbs., making them suitable for everything from small electronics box doors to large, heavy coffin-box lids.

For the heaviest and most demanding applications — large engine hatches, deck panels, and access covers on performance vessels — electromechanical hatch lifters are the go-to solution. These motor-driven actuators provide powered, controlled lifting at the push of a button, ideal when a hatch is too heavy or awkwardly positioned to open by hand, especially in choppy conditions.

The marine environment demands materials that can withstand constant exposure to moisture, UV, and corrosive salt spray. Look for hatch lifts featuring anodized aluminum, stainless steel, or non-corrosive composite construction to ensure reliable long-term performance.

What to Consider When Buying a Hatch Lift

• Hatch weight and size: Calculate the weight of the hatch and its dimensions before choosing a strut force rating or actuator capacity.
• Mounting location: Deck-mounted hatches face more spray and require higher corrosion resistance and IP (ingress protection) ratings than interior hatches.
• Single vs. dual installation: Very heavy hatches may benefit from two lifts working in tandem for balanced support and greater total lifting force.
• Salt vs. freshwater use: Stainless steel or anodized aluminum components are essential for saltwater environments where mild steel will corrode quickly.
• Manual vs. powered: Gas struts and support springs suit most recreational applications; electric actuators are ideal for large hatches or applications requiring remote or push-button operation.

Top Brands for Marine & RV Hatch Lifts

Uflex is the top-selling brand in this category for good reason. Their AV and AVL Series electromechanical hatch lifters are specifically engineered for the marine environment, featuring anodized aluminum and stainless steel construction. Available in locking and non-locking versions, Uflex hatch lifters can handle up to 265 lbs. in single-actuator applications and up to 530 lbs. in dual installations — making them a strong choice for demanding powerboat and yacht applications.

Bomar is a trusted name throughout the marine hardware world, with a legacy stretching back to the late 1940s. Known for producing top-quality ports, hatches, and related hardware favored by leading boat builders globally, Bomar's hatch-related products are built to exacting standards and are a natural complement to their broader line of marine closures.

Attwood Marine is a well-recognized name in marine hardware and accessories, offering practical and reliable hatch support options suitable for a wide range of recreational boats and applications.

Whitecap Industries rounds out the category with dependable marine hardware solutions, bringing their reputation for solid construction and value to the hatch lift segment.