Service: Lifehack with liftbag - drive maintenance at the berth with air cushion instead of crane

The maintenance of saildrives and drives on catamarans usually means Booking a crane appointment, often waiting weeks, using marina infrastructure - and paying accordingly. Vito Nautika breaks this dependency with a mobile system that comes directly to the boat. The liftbag system is based on inflatable lifting bags from the Dutch manufacturer Buitink Technology and is affectionately known internally as "the Blob". Buitink Technology has been developing technical textiles and inflatable systems since 1948 and is one of the five largest manufacturers of underwater lifting bags in the world.

Liftbag technology from the Netherlands

Buitink Technology developed the lifting bags especially for the maintenance of boats and catamarans. The system consists of robust, inflatable cushions made of coated polyester fabric, which are filled with air and pressurised. For catamarans, a lifting bag is positioned centrally under the boat and lifts both hulls simultaneously - enough to gain access to the saildrives, propellers and steering gear. For monohulls, two lifting bags lashed to the side of the hull are required. Buitink Technology produces the lifting bags in five standard types for different boat sizes.

Fast and independent

It takes 30 to 60 minutes to position and secure the lift bag under the catamaran. The actual lifting process takes around 60 minutes - the catamaran is then lifted to such an extent that there is free access to both drives. Once the maintenance work has been completed, the equipment is cleaned and packed away for its next use. According to the manufacturer, the system achieves maximum independence from marina infrastructures. With its own service boat, Vito Nautika can also use the liftback outside of marinas - directly at anchor or at berths without crane facilities.

Saildrive maintenance made easy

The maintenance of saildrives is a familiar topic: according to the manufacturer's recommendations, the shaft seals should be replaced every two years, and removal usually requires the boat to be taken out of the water. The situation is similar for damage caused by mooring lines wrapped in the propeller. For catamaran owners in remote areas or without access to suitable cranes, this often means logistical challenges. This is exactly where the liftback system comes in: Instead of craning the entire boat, only the stern is lifted so that work can be carried out on the propellers, saildrives and steering gear.

Cost-effective alternative

Depending on the size of the boat, using the lifting bag costs between 600 and 800 euros - including personnel. Conventional crane costs for catamarans of this size are often significantly higher, especially as many marinas charge additional fees for the mooring on land.

However, according to Vito Nautika, the system requires a well-coordinated team of two to three specialists and meticulous preparation - simply because of the weight and size of the equipment. The system is therefore not intended for DIY enthusiasts, but rather a professional service.

For which work the liftbag is sufficient and where craning is necessary depends on the individual case. Hull repairs, osmosis treatments or complete antifouling work will probably still require the use of a crane. The system could be a practical alternative for saildrive servicing, propeller replacement, anode replacement or rudder blade inspections.

Availability and area of application

Vito Nautika uses the system for catamarans from 38 to 51 feet. Detailed information on areas of operation, availability and booking should be obtained directly from the Provider can be enquired about.

TECHNICAL DATA:

• Suitability: Sailing and motor catamarans from 38 to 51 feet
• Time required: Preparation: 30-60 min, lifting process: approx. 60 min, post-processing: 60-90 min
• Operating costs: 600-800 euros (depending on boat size)

Applications:

• Service on Saildrives
• Maintenance of motor drives
• Control/repair of steering gear
• Propeller access
• Anode change

• Manufacturer: Buitink Technology
• Service provider in Croatia: Vito Nautica

MORE ARTICLES ON THE TOPIC:

• Maintenance: Maintenance intervals - how often the drive, rigging and technology need to be checked
• What to do if a line gets caught in the propeller