Folding Tender Cradle
The Folding Tender Cradle addresses a fundamental challenge in tender handling: how to securely store a tender or jet ski on the swim platform without permanently occupying the space. Our retractable tender cradle folds completely flush into the platform after use. The swim platform remains fully walkable, trip-free and visually unchanged.
Built from electropolished AISI 316L stainless steel, the cradle is corrosion-resistant, UV-stable and engineered for permanent saltwater exposure. Adjustable side supports adapt seamlessly to different hull shapes, whether RIB, rigid inflatable or jet ski. Every system is individually configured for the specific vessel and delivered fully pre-assembled.
Configuration is carried out in close coordination with the client or shipyard by our engineering team in Münster, Germany. All systems are fully assembled, filled with hydraulic oil and function-tested before shipment — ensuring fast, seamless installation on board.
Tenders and jet skis weigh several hundred kilograms and must be absolutely secure in rough seas. At the same time, the swim platform should remain clear when the tender is in the water. The Folding Tender Cradle combines both: adjustable side supports lock the hull precisely in place, and after launching, the entire system folds flush into the platform. No obstacles when swimming, no trip hazards, no visible hardware — just open space.
What sets the Fold Down Cradle apart from fixed tender chocks: once folded, the cradle disappears entirely. The platform surface remains smooth and level — the yacht's appearance stays intact. Particularly on charter yachts and superyachts, where the stern is a defining visual element, this is a decisive advantage over permanently mounted cradles.
Every swim platform is different — in size, shape, recess depth and load-bearing capacity. That is why the Folding Tender Cradle is never a standard product. Our engineering team designs each system precisely for the individual vessel. Close collaboration with shipyards and owners has been at the core of H+B technics since 1995. The result: a system that integrates seamlessly into the existing architecture — visually and technically.
Visual overview
Examine the davit system from every angle
Technical Specifications
This davit system lifts tenders to 3,500 kilograms with controlled precision. Hydraulic pressure remains steady across all operational conditions and environmental factors.
Marine-Grade Stainless Steel
Manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel with a minimum 2% molybdenum content, specifically engineered to resist pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-rich environments. The alloy retains its mechanical strength under prolonged UV exposure and temperature fluctuations between -20°C and +60°C — relevant for yachts operating between Northern European waters and tropical cruising grounds.
Electropolished Surface
The electropolishing process removes the outermost material layer under controlled conditions. The result is a microscopically smooth surface with reduced roughness, where salt crystals, algae and organic deposits adhere far less readily. Compared to brushed or satin-finished stainless steel, cleaning intervals are significantly extended — a factor particularly relevant for charter yachts with tight turnaround schedules.
Adjustable Side Supports
The side supports are infinitely adjustable in height and angle to achieve a form-fitting hold on the tender or jet ski hull. Contact surfaces are coated with abrasion-resistant polymer that protects gelcoat finishes and dampens vibration noise in rough seas. When switching to a different tender, the supports can be repositioned without tools.
Folding Mechanism
The mechanism operates on a purely mechanical basis using stainless steel hinges with maintenance-free plain bearings. No electrical connection or hydraulic lines are required at the cradle itself — making the system independent of onboard systems and less failure-prone than electromechanical alternatives. Folding and deploying is done manually by one person in under 30 seconds.
Installation & Platform Integration
The system is delivered as an installation kit that fits into a prepared recess in the swim platform. Recess depth, cutout geometry and mounting points are defined in advance in coordination with the shipyard or platform manufacturer. For retrofit projects, our team develops an individual installation plan based on physical measurements or 3D scans.
"The lifts are not just functional — they match our design and standards. With H+B, it feels more like a team than a supplier relationship."
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the most common questions about the Folding Tender Cradle.
The Folding Tender Cradle is individually configured, allowing it to adapt to different tender and jet ski sizes. The adjustable side supports accommodate various hull shapes and widths. Maximum load capacity and dimensions are determined by the existing platform and defined during the project.
The mechanism is purely manual — no electrical connection or hydraulics are required at the cradle itself. The cradle is released and folds into a dedicated recess in the platform until it sits flush with the surface.
Fixed tender chocks remain permanently mounted on the platform — even when no tender is stored. The Folding Tender Cradle, by contrast, disappears entirely into the platform. This keeps the swim platform fully walkable and preserves the stern's appearance.
All systems are delivered fully pre-assembled and function-tested, ensuring fast and straightforward installation on board. Installation planning is coordinated with the client or shipyard in advance.
Electropolished AISI 316L stainless steel is extremely low-maintenance. Regular rinsing with fresh water is sufficient to remove salt deposits. No re-polishing or special corrosion protection is needed. The moving parts of the mechanism should be inspected during the yacht's regular maintenance intervals.
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Customization option
Tailored solutions perfectly suited to your needs. At H+B technics, we not only offer our proven products but also the opportunity to customize them according to your specific requirements. Our experienced team is ready to support you in developing and realizing bespoke products for your yacht or project, always with a strong focus on quality, innovation, and precision.
Whether it’s special dimensions, functions, or an entirely new design, we bring your vision to life. Rely on our expertise and let’s make your ideas a reality together.
Robin Zimmermann
Sales
Start your project
Every Folding Tender Cradle is individually configured for your vessel. Talk to our team, we support you from the first concept to the finished installation.
