A boat lift has pumps that evacuate water from flotation containers lower the boat lift. Multiple flotation containers are retained by a frame that is formed as a grid. The pumps are contained within a housing that is retained in position by the frame. Water enters the housing through valves and is distributed to the flotation containers to lower the boat lift. Water is evacuated from the flotation containers by pumps, with valves closed to prevent water from entering the flotation containers.