Ratchet Winch

+Mechanism simple and proven
+Minimal maintenance
+Use with cable or strap
+Low price
-Use carefully to avoid ratchets coming loose
-Danger of crank rotation when the boat descends
 

Brake winch

+Holds the boat manually when raising
+Avoids accidental crank returns
+Same low maintenance as ratchet models
+May be used with cable or strap
-More expensive than ratchet models
 

Electric Winch

+Raises the boat without effort
+Recommended for heavy loads
-Major energy consumer
-More expensive than other winches