New equipment improves access to Newport Harbor for those with disabilities

Newport Beach’s waterways are a place where boaters can relax, finding solace in the saltwater.

But not everyone could easily access the seaside town’s pristine harbor – until now.

The city on Thursday, May 12, unveiled a new lift system that will help people with disabilities or anyone who needs assistance transfer onto vessels in the harbor. It is believed to be the first of its kind on a public dock in Southern California.

A crowd gathered to watch a demonstration at Marina Park, where the lift will be available for use daily by request from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Among the curious harbor enthusiasts was Ann Marie Jones, of Glendale, who just started sailing about four years ago. She was born with spina bifida and recently lost the function of her legs, she said, making her newfound pursuit extra challenging.

The only way to get on a boat was for two big guys to literally lift her up and put her on the boat, all while trying not to lose their balance.

“I’m little, it’s not a big deal. But for someone who is bigger, it’s not safe for them – for the person being lifted into the water or the person doing the lifting. It’s a total safety issue,” she said. “In addition to that, it’s an access issue.”

For the lift to work, the top edge of the boat’s rail can only be up to 18 inches above the level of the docks. The lift can lower or retrieve someone all the way down to the water level, making it suitable for transferring someone to a variety of marine craft including a small sailboat or powerboat, a kayak or paddleboard.

The lift will be kept offsite by the Harbor Department to mitigate rust and damage, with city staff available during the designated hours to help with the transfer from the dock to the awaiting watercraft.

The $3,000 device, a Reliant 450 from Invacare Corp., required a custom installation by Swift Slip Dock & Pier Builders at a cost of about $5,000, city officials said.

Newport Beach Mayor Kevin Muldoon called the demonstration a “historic” day. He remembers meeting avid sailor Christian Buhl, he said, who told him it was something much needed in the boating community. While a few private yacht clubs have had lifts, there’s no known public docks nearby that has such technology.

“This is an opportunity for Newport Beach to be a place where people all over the country can come and experience freedom on the water,” Muldoon said.

In addition, the city plans to develop an adaptive sailing program that will utilize the equipment.

Buhl, who runs California Inclusive Sailing, a volunteer group that helps people with disabilities get on the water, called the addition to the harbor a “dream come true.”

“We have the right team, the right tool and the right time,” he said. “Never stop dreaming.”

The group is out on the water three times a week and each time, lifting someone from a wheelchair to a boat is like a “choreographed dance” that can require up to eight people, Buhl said. “Everyone picks up, moves at the same time, all step on the boat at the same time and put them down at the same time.”

Bhumit Shah, of Lakewood, volunteered to give the lift a try, his body gently hoisted using a sling to transfer him from his wheelchair onto a boat, which afterward departed for a spin around the glistening harbor.

“Newport will be now on the map as being more inclusive and diverse,” Shah said after his return, a smile splashed across his face. “It’s amazing. It’s great for mental and physical well being, relaxation – and just having fun just like every other American.”

To request use of the lift, contact the Harbor Department at 949-270-8159 or email harbormaster@newportbeachca.gov.

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