Kayak Launch For Marine or Tidal Docks

The Tide-Pulley for Use at Fixed Docks in Tidal Waters

The Tide Pulley, when affixed to one of the attachment holes at the upper end of the KayaArm mast, enables height adjustment of the KayaArm arm that may be needed due to tide level changes upon return from a kayaking excursion.

It can be used to adjust the height of the KayaArm from the water level while sitting in your kayak (see video for demo).

It is intended for paddlers with fixed docks in tidal waters who experience a water level change greater than 2” while out kayaking. The height of the arm can be adjusted from their kayak at water level instead of at the top of the KayaArm mast.

The tide pulley is not needed for floating docks.

How to Launch a kayak from a high dock with a ladder in tidal waters

The tide pulley is intended to be used in conjuction with the KayaArm Kayak Launch and Stabilizer.

How it works

As shown in the photos the bracket, pulley and bolts are assembled to fit onto the right side of the mast when facing the mast from the dock. Assemble it in the mirror image to mount it on the left side.

The Tide Pulley, when affixed to one of the attachment holes at the upper end of the KayaArm mast, enables height adjustment of the KayaArm arm that may be needed due to tide level changes upon return from a kayaking excursion. The arrangement consists of attaching the Tide Pulley assembly, replacing the chain with a rope and for tying off the rope adding a cleat at a location that is reachable from the returning kayaker in their kayak.

KayaArm Tide Pulley

Additional Examples of Uses for the Tide Pulley

Use of an Anchor Cleat or Hook

The photos also show two possible locations for an anchor cleat or hook for tying off the rope and one photo shows the chain added onto the end of the rope enabling chain link adjustment increments. Some experimentation will be needed to determine the best location for the cleat or hook. 

Key considerations are accessibility from the dock and from the water while in the kayak and also keeping the path clear for entering/exiting the kayak.

Tide Pulley and Ladder at the Dock

This photo from a woman in North Carolina shows an excellent combination installation of Tide Pulley and ladder used with a KayaArm tidal waters kayak launch.


Demo of two KayaArms with tide pulley option from high fixed dock


Tide Pulley Installation Instructions

To be used with the KayaArm on a fixed dock in tidal waters
The Tide Pulley, when affixed to one of the attachment holes at the upper end of the KayaArm mast, enables height adjustment of the KayaArm arm that may be needed due to tide level changes upon return from a kayaking excursion. This arrangement consists of attaching the Tide Pulley assembly, replacing the chain with a rope, and for tying off the rope, adding a cleat at a location that is reachable from the returning kayaker in their kayak.

You Will Need:

  • Tide Pulley
  • Rope (1/4” polypropylene, twisted type vs braided for low stretch or a length of steel cable)
  • Cleat or chain hook
  • 7/16” wrench 

After attaching the Tide Pulley, swap out the chain for your selected rope. After this, you will need to decide where to affix your cleat/hook. The photos show two possible locations for an anchor-cleat or hook for tying off the rope, and one photo shows the chain added onto the end of the rope, enabling chain link adjustment increments. Some experimentation will be needed to determine the best location for the cleat or hook.

Key considerations are accessibility from the dock and from the water while in the kayak as well as keeping the path clear for entering/exiting the kayak.

Tide Pulley System

Happy Kayakers!

“Everyone from my 78 year old mother-in-law to my 16 year old niece was able to enter and exit our kayaks (and paddle boards) at both high and low tides with ease. Based on our experience thus far, the arm appears to be the perfect solution for our needs and budget.”

Maryland, USA


KayaArm Suite of Products

Kayak launch


Launch from your dock


Use at marine or tidal docks

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