TenderConnect instead of davits – the dinghy on the transom
Are you looking at davits? Then you're facing the same question as everyone else: Where to put the dinghy without it taking up space on the foredeck, obstructing the view, or having to be towed behind? The TenderConnect solves this problem differently—the Dinghy lies flat against the Transom instead of hanging from an extension arm. This page shows both side by side.
The difference in one sentence
Davits carries the Dinghy behind the Transom. It's the TenderConnect an The Transom. Almost everything else follows from that: the leverage, the space requirements, how it handles at sea, and whether you can dock the Transom at the pier.
Davits and TenderConnect compared
| Davits | TenderConnect | |
|---|---|---|
| Dinghy position | is located behind the Transom | is connected to Transom |
| Lever back | Weight is far behind the Transom | Weight is on the Transom; overhang: 7.5–9.5 cm |
| Room on board | Transom: pushpit and swim platform are taken | requires a free area of 50 cm × 12 cm |
| Transom angled to one side | access is usually blocked | can be mounted offset to the side, access often remains unobstructed |
| Operation | depending on the design, tackle, crank, or electric | Manual hitching and unhitching by one person |
| Outboard | remains attached depending on the model | A lightweight outboard motor can remain on the Dinghy |
| Yacht size | from mid-size yachts upwards | from 20 feet |
| Assembly | usually on the pushpit or on the platform, often with reinforcement | Apply drilling template, drill, screw together |
This comparison isn't meant to be a definitive judgment. If you're sailing a heavy dinghy with a powerful outboard motor, davits are a good choice. For anything smaller—and that includes the majority of yachts under 45 feet—it's worth taking a closer look.
What an owner says after 1,600 nautical miles
The main advantage over other systems—including davits—is its stable mounting during crossings. Of the 1,600 sm we covered during the summer months, we have literally “been through” about 1,000 sm of Mediterranean crossings with the TenderConnect. With the Transom, the firm contact against the ship's side acts as a stabilizing factor.
Thomas Schwabe, Mediterranean
Further submissions in their exact wording can be found under Customer reviews.
The benefits in detail
- Quick and easy hitching and unhitching – can be operated by one person.
- The foredeck remains for the crew.
- No obstruction of view by the dinghy on the foredeck or the cabin roof.
- The yacht's speed and handling are not affected by Dinghy transport.
- The Dinghy can remain on the yacht—even in the marina.
- A lightweight outboard motor can stay on the inflatable boat.
- The dinghy is ready for immediate use for shore excursions and in emergencies.
Will it fit my transom?
Three dimensions are key: a clear area of 50 cm × 12 cm, a curvature of no more than approximately 2° over 60 cm—compensating wedges are available for steeper curves—and an overhang of 7.5 cm to 9.5 cm when installed. Suitable models are dinghies with a fixed transom between 2 m and 3.2 m.
The List of yachts that are already sailing with TenderConnect, grows out of the submissions from the owners themselves. If you want to be sure: the Drilling template is free of charge, just plug it into the Transom.
The assembly
Drill the holes using the included template. Then secure the TenderConnect with screws and self-locking nuts: the arms to the Dinghy, and the sensors to the Transom on the yacht. If you'd rather not drill the holes yourself, please contact us—we'll carry out the installation or refer you to a partner in your area.
Still unsure?
Please send two photos of the Transom to shop@tenderconnect.eu. We will let you know in advance if it is a good fit, and if not, why. You can reach us by phone at +49 172 8563146.
