I was chatting with a buddy tonight who is considering getting into something like a Formula 370SS, 400SS, Fountain 38EC, or similar.

They are looking for something a boat to keep in the water, and perhaps lease a slip for a year, and move to another location in the region; for a couple years in succession.

What are the best options for a 16K-20K lbs. boat for a lift with this "portable" requirement?
Pros? Cons? Also, what about the "mounting" options as I know some have design requirements to be 'affixed' to a dock, whereas others are 'free-floating' or can be tied up just like a boat. As such, the latter is likely preferred for this use case.

Thanks for your thoughts and inputs.

Hydrohoist attach to the dock but are fully supported by the lift.

Make sure the docks you want to use will allow the lift you get. My marina allows only hydrohoist (a kick back thing)

The Sunstream is a better quality lift.. but expensive...
The Floatlift ties up to the dock just like a boat... you can tie onto it and pull it away with your boat...
The negative is that they need a lot of slip width because the floats roll out from under the boat...not sink..... They're foam filled so they can't sink... Unlike half the hydrohoists that I have seen....

Jet Dock should be on your short list. Saw the owner of the company run his forty something foot Hustler up on one with extreme ease. I was very impressed plus they have a lot of cool accessories

Floating Boat Dock Systems, Boat Lifts & PWC Lifts - JetDock

I am actually a fan of Jet Dock. I like the design and concept. But I don't know if they can handle that kind of weight and size boat.

Hydrohoist All the way. Get a 4 tank Hoist

Just don't buy a hydrodock. They are everywhere in south FL and they are complete junk.

i used to keep my 400SS on a hydro hoist and it worked great , getting use to using it was a bit scary but after getting it figured out it was cool

I have the sun stream float lift 13K, and it has been very good. use it in saltwater, and the lift stays in year round.
A little pricey, but I like it.

beertruck