12 best marine ladders
Marine ladders, also known as boat ladders or boarding ladders, are essential pieces of equipment used in the boating and marine industry. They provide a safe and convenient way for individuals to board and disembark from boats, yachts, and other watercraft. Here are some key points about marine ladders:
Types of Marine Ladders:
- Boarding Ladders: These are common ladders used for boarding boats from the water.They can be mounted permanently or temporarily to the boat's transom (rear) or sides.
- Swim Platform Ladders: These ladders are designed to attach to swim platforms on boats, providing an easy way for swimmers to re-enter the boat from the water.
- Pontoon Ladders: Specifically designed for pontoon boats, these ladders typically attach to the pontoon's structure and extend into the water.
Materials and Construction:
- Marine ladders are constructed from durable materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or other corrosion-resistant materials to withstand exposure to water, salt, and other marine elements.
Design Features:
- Many marine ladders have steps or rungs that are textured or coated to provide grip and prevent slipping, especially when wet.
- Some ladders have folding or telescoping designs, allowing them to be compactly stored when not in use and easily deployed when needed.
Mounting Options:
- Marine ladders can be mounted in various ways, including permanently fixed, removable, or telescoping, depending on the specific type and design of the ladder.
Safety and Regulations:
- Marine ladders need to comply with safety regulations and standards set by organizations such as the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) to ensure their reliability and safety for users.
Installation and Usage:
- Proper installation is crucial to ensure the ladder is securely attached to the boat and can safely support the weight of users.
- Users should be educated on how to use the ladder safely, including proper grip and technique for boarding and disembarking.
Boating Safety:
- Marine ladders are an important aspect of boating safety, providing a way for individuals to quickly re-enter the boat in case of emergencies or accidents.
Marine ladders play a critical role in boating safety and convenience, allowing easy access to and from boats, especially for recreational activities like swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best marine ladders on the market- This High Quality smooth folding ladder is made of SS 304. Tubing is 7/8" thick
- Dimensions when fully opened:24"H by 7"W Steps
- adjustable standoffs with cushioned tips for correct fit
- Each Step Has A Flat Tread Cover w/ Non-Slip Plastic for Safety.
- Ladder folds compactly and it is 12.5" long when stowed.
User questions & answers
Question: | What size bolts do I need to mount this |
Answer: | My gunnels are 9 inches wide and there's tons of room left I would say they would go up to 15 inches |
Question: | Does the latter spring up or do you have to lift it up to store It |
Answer: | 12.5" inside dimension. 15" outside. Works best along the side toward to rear of the boat. |
Question: | My transom is slightly at a angle. Will this still work on it |
Answer: | It doesn't permanently mount to the boat it just hooks onto the side of it. |
Question: | Back of my transom is slanted just a little. Will this still work good on it |
Answer: | It does not fold hooks turn size unknown |
Product features
3 Step Folding Ladder Boat Marine Stainless Steel Pontoon Ladder Polished 2+1 Step 300-lbs. Weight Capacity
This flip down ladder works perfect on fishing boat. Made getting in the boat so much easier when tubing.This telescopic boat ladder is made to be bolted to a horizontal platform such as the boat floor or side railings depending on the installation.
The design of this platform ladder makes it possible to be used as on a pontoon boat.
Some of customers have also used this as a low profile dock ladder.
Installation is very easy, simply bolt the ladder to a horizontal platform and you are ready to use it!
The steps feature non-slip rubber for your safety as well as a Velcro strap for securing the ladder in a non extended position.
Sleek and contemporary design Telescopic closure to only 370mm for easy storage.
8.75 overall width. 7 inches inside width with 5 inch rubber treads, the dimensions from top bracket to rubber one is 8 inch.
- 100% Brand New Marine-Grade product
- Durable construction - 304 Stainless Steel
- Compact and efficient - Telescopic Design
- Moulded Black vinyl tread to facilitate easy boarding and ensuring maximum grip for the user, reducing slippage
- Hinged bracket allows for the ladder to fold over platform for easy fitting
User questions & answers
Question: | will this work for a 17.5 Bayliner |
Answer: | We normally don't recommend this mask for children under the age of 12, as the respiratory system is not developed enough to recommend this mask. Breathing in the mask is comfortable and feels normal but is not recommended for younger children. |
Question: | Does this ladder have a warranty |
Answer: | I returned it to Amazon without issue and received a new one wth a different size. |
Question: | What's the weight limit for this |
Answer: | Yes, no water gets in at all. |
Question: | Will this hold up in Salt Water |
Answer: | Why not?My little boy uses it in the pool all the time. |
Product features
4 Step Ladder Stainless Steel Telescoping Ladder, 900 Pound Capacity for Marine Yacht/Swimming Pool with Retaining Strap
No matter you are short or tall,slim or fat,even disabled or have a bad back or knee this is the right ladder for you.It will make the climb back into the boat after going for a swim easier and make your boating life happier.
Product description
Features:
.The 4 step telescopic boat ladder is made of high quality 316 stainless steel.
This telescopic boat ladder is made to be bolted to a horizontal platform such a the boat floor or side railings depending on the installation. The design of this platform ladder makes it possible to be used as on a pontoon boat
Installation is very easy, simply bolt the ladder to ahorizontal platform and you are ready to use it.
The steps feature non-slip rubber for your safety as well as a rubber secure strap for securing the ladder in a non extended position.
Specification:
Marine Grade Stainless Steel
Surface Finish: Mirror Polished
Length Folded 15.75"
Length Extended 44.25"
Width (Outside of Bracket) 11.9375"
Proof Load 1190 lbs
Overall Dimensions:15.7"*11.8"*3.54"( 40*30*9cm)
Instruction / installation manuals are not included. Mounting Hardware are included.
- 【OEM Quality】: Constructed of marine grade 316 stainless steel and have a proofload to support even the biggest swimmer. Each step has a slip-proof plastic tread to assure maximum safety.
- 【Compact & Convenient】: The telescoping steps on this boat ladder fold quickly and effortlessly into the water for safe boarding. For storage, the low profile stainless steel steps fold compactly and also gives this boarding ladder a very sleek look.
- 【Application】: This boat ladder is designed to be mounted below your swim grid or other platform. When stowed, it folds flat beneath your swim grid/platform. This leaves your swim grid completely unobstructed, yet the ladder can easily fold out at your convenience. Each ladder includes a rubber secure strap that can be used to fix the mounting bracket to ensure the steps remain securely in place when not in use.
- 【Dimensions】: Length Folded 15.75", Length Extended 44.25", Width (Outside of Bracket) 11.9375", Proof Load 1190 lbs.
- 【Package Included】: 1 x 4 Step Ladder; 1 x rubber secure strap; 8 x Mounting Screws are included(The diameter of the hole for screw is about 8mm/0.31inch)
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the weight capacity |
Answer: | I'm at 250lbs and it holds me just fine. Hope that helps |
Question: | Any rust on this one form saltwater use |
Answer: | I installed it but haven´t been able to get the boat launched with this pandemia business. |
Question: | Has anyone over 300lbs tried this ladder? How is it holding up for those that have had it for a while |
Answer: | I am at 260lbs and it holds me good. Been on the boat 2 years now and no problems. |
Question: | How much of a lip on the outer edge of the platform will this clear |
Answer: | The storage pin sticks out approximately 1 or 2 inches depending how deep the ladder is mounted under the swim grid .very steep angle on the steps, but so far liking it . |
- ✅ Durable construction - Marine Grade Stainless Steel
- ✅ Smooth slide with nylon bushing between ladder sections prevent galling and inadvertent deployment
- ✅ Hinged bracket allows for the ladder to fold over platform for easy fitting
- ✅ A slight angle to make it easirer to board rather than straight up and down
- ✅ Moulded Black vinyl tread to facilitate easy boarding and ensuring maximum grip for the user, reducing slippage
User questions & answers
Question: | Can this be mounted flat to the transom |
Answer: | yes,you can mounted it to the tansom.if the foot of ladder can be mounted firmly,the ladder can be set up most parts. |
Question: | what are the inside dimensions at the top |
Answer: | 215.9MM |
Question: | I need to mount on the side gate of my pontoon. After mounting how is it stored when folded up? Is it going to require side gate to be open |
Answer: | It is designed to lay flat on the deck. Gate would need to be open to deploy and store. The way I read your question, I wouldn’t mount it ON the side gate. Hope this helps! |
Question: | What is the distance from the OD of the tube to the first screw |
Answer: | it is 7.5cm from the OD of the tube to the center of first hole . |
Product features
Column
- Slide smoonthly
- Closely connected
- Perfect polish
Foot
- Adjustable foot
- Fix ladder on yacht
- 25.4cm mounting hole distance
Step
- 4 steps
- Skid-proof and soft nylon step
- Fixed rope
2 Step Stainless Steel Telescoping Boat Drop Ladder
AISN: B072Q5XD1K
3 Step Stainless Steel Telescoping Boat Drop Ladder
AISN: B07DZSFHG5
4 Step Folding Rear Entry Pontoon Boat Telescopic Ladder
AISN: B0758C3FGG
4 Step Foldable Ladder Stern Mount W Rubber Grips Ladder
AISN: B07L3QR3RN
Product description
【Main Features】:
Universal Swim Under Mount Telescopic 4-step Ladder
This ladder can be stowed for storage and deployed when use Black step threads are installed on the step for safety purpose
This ladder is easy to install and the stainless steel 316 tubing is durable
Bolts are included.
High-Strength Stainless Steel 316 Tubing at 1.5".
Velcro Strap included to stow ladder
Can fit most transom.
【Specification】 :
Length Deployed: 42.32" (Length) X 8.9" (Width)
Length Stowed: 17.7" (Length) X 8.9" (Width)
Step Thread: 7.25" X 1.5",
Thickness of Tube: 1.5 (maximum)"
Weight Capacity: 900 lbs
Installs directly on boat - requires drilling
【What’s included】:
1 x 4 step Outboard Swim Platform Ladder
4 x 1.2" Mounting Screws (The diameter of the hole for screw is about 6mm/0.23inch)
- 【Specification】: Length Deployed: 42.32" (Length) X 8.9" (Width), Length Stowed: 17.7" (Length) X 8.9" (Width); Step Thread: 7.25" X 1.5", Thickness of Tube: 1.5 (maximum)" ; Velcro Strap included to stow ladder. Weight Capacity: 900 lb
- 【OEM Quality】: Constructed of marine grade 316 stainless steel & durable wood, it has a amazing proof-load to support swimmers. Each step has a slip-proof plastic tread to assure maximum safety.
- 【Compact & Convenient】:Telescoping ladder retracts when not in use. Black non-skid step threads are installed on the step for safety purpose. Made with thick-walled 316 stainless steel marine grade tubing for durability, strength, and is resistance to rust
- 【Application】:This telescopic boat ladder is made to be bolted to a horizontal platform such a the boat floor or side railings depending on the installation. The design of this platform ladder makes it possible to be used as on a pontoon boat (package included
- 【Package Included】: 1 x 4 step Outboard Swim Platform Ladder, 4 x 1.2" long Mounting Screws(The diameter of the hole for screw is about 6mm/0.23inch) .
User questions & answers
Question: | What is thhe pipe diameter at the brackets? Need to use existing brackets |
Answer: | It does not collapse. The hooks and arms do fold inward. It is good for small boats. We have a 17' mako. |
Product description
3 STEP DIVE LADDER SS EES3
User questions & answers
Question: | Is there 2 screws that stick out the back where it slides into a bracket |
Answer: | No |
Question: | Where is it made |
Answer: | I have no idea, but I am very happy with the ladder. It’s solid, I weigh 220 and use it as a ladder for diving. Works great. |
Question: | Why do I have to pay for the return shipping |
Answer: | Because the sun is out and when the soy is out on Monday that is our policy. |
Question: | Does it come with the storage clips as shown in the picture |
Answer: | Yes. It comes with the clips and they work very well. |
Product description
These easy-to-use ladders are designed to take up less space on your swim platform. Telescoping steps (two or three) drop smoothly and quickly into the water to provide convenient boarding. The additional ridged stainless steel grab bar at the top of the telescoping ladder helps provide leverage when exiting the water and onto your boat. When you're done, the ladder easily flips up onto the platform for storage. Installs in minutes. Made of thick-walled 304 stainless steel tubing for durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. Features low-profile plastic non skid tread on steps. 300-lb. capacity. Mounting Gudgeons included
- Anti-Rattling - Nylon Bushing in between Ladder Segments for smooth extension which other COMPETITORS DO NOT HAVE
- B00301CHA - Steps 3, A) Deployed 35”, A) Stowed 14-1/2” B) 10” C) 5-13/16”, Fastener 1/4" FH
- B00351CHA - Steps 4 A) Deployed 45-1/2”, A) Stowed 15-1/2” B) 10” C) 6-1/2”, Fastener 5/16” FH
- Handle Bar for Easier Reboarding, Steps drop down for convenient boarding, Grade 304 Stainless Steel with Electro-Polish finish
- Telescoping, Bungee cord securing strap included, Meets ABYC H-41 requirements
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the diminsion between the mounting holes that fastens it to the boat? Center to center |
Answer: | 10" |
- Great for docks and pontoons
- Angled with tall handrails for easy boarding
- Wide, comfortable boarding steps. (5-1/2" depth x 16" width per step)
- Includes all mounting hardware (LHW-LAK ladder mounting kit)
User questions & answers
Question: | I am interested in this ladder for my dock. However I do not see the at rest position that allows people to climb up, without bending the ladder |
Answer: | The ladder is so heavy duty it will not bend. I installed mine with extra board under dock for more support just because the ladder is so strong. |
Question: | Where was it made |
Answer: | We don't know but we can highly recommend this ladder. We had two others and finally got the best possible ladder in this one. When we are at the lake, everyone comments about how awesome it is and easy to use. We love it! |
Question: | what is the weight limit for the ladder |
Answer: | They say 250 lbs. I'm 225 and I feel as if I'm testing the limit. The ladder is suspended from my dock. I'm satisfied |
Question: | I have aluminum dock with straight sides. The ladder steps slant away from the sides of the dock so no support is behind the steps. Wrong ladder |
Answer: | This is a ladder for a pontoon boat. It is designed with steps on a slant to avoid contact with the pontoons (round cylinders). It is supported by the brackets that are attached to the flat deck (floor) of the boat. I would think that it would be fine for your dock. We are VERY happy with our purchase of this item for our pontoon boat. |
- 【Boarding Easier】Our 3 step boat ladder makes it so much easier getting in and out on a boat,especially make climb back into the boat after going for a swim easier.Its 2 flexible mounts can swing 270 degrees to prevent your ladder from bumping against the hull.It is designed for a top mount that swings out and down.
- 【Marina Grade】: Constructed of marine grade 316 stainless steel and have a proofload to support even the biggest swimmer. Each step has a slip-proof plastic tread to assure maximum safety.
- 【Compact & Convenient】: The telescoping steps on this boat ladder fold quickly and effortlessly into the water for safe boarding. For storage, the low profile stainless steel steps fold compactly and also gives this boarding ladder a very sleek look.
- 【Application】:This telescopic boat ladder is made to be bolted to a horizontal platform such a the boat floor or side railings depending on the installation. The design of this platform ladder makes it possible to be used as on a pontoon boat.
- 【Dimensions】: Thickness of Tube: 1.2"; Length Folded 15.2", Length Extended 34.8", Width (Outside of Bracket) 11.4", Step Thread: 7.25" X 1.5"; Proof Capacity 900lbs.
User questions & answers
Question: | will this ladder fit a 2015 regal 2700ES swim platform |
Answer: | They sell 2 models. This one is the 3 foot ladder with 3 steps. |
Question: | Does the ladder hang down or does it follow the hull and go underneath? The ladder i have now angles under the boat and impossible to climb out |
Answer: | The ladder is rated for up to 250 lbs. Thank you |
Question: | How do the steps lock in to the rails |
Answer: | Our mount is meant for the GoPro clip. If your camera will fit in the GoPro mounting hardware then it could work. Normally it is only meant for the GoPro mount. |
Question: | The way this folds looks like it would fit under a swim platform, but my friend says no. Will it |
Answer: | It just snaps on and off. I didn't get any extra parts? |
Product features
Boat Ladder Dimensions
* Folded length: 14.75" / 375mm.Sleek and contemporary design Telescopic closure to only 375mm for easy storage
* Fully extended: 34.5" / 875mm.Telescopic length 375mm (min) to 875mm (max)
* Outside to Outside width: 11.50" / 295mm
* Mounting hole distance: 10.0" / 254mm
* Stainless Steel Diameter - 32/25/19mm
Nylon Bushings
* The 3 step telescopic boat ladder is made of high quality stainless steel,it's corrosion-resistant and sturdy,smooth surface can keep up to date
* Installation is very easy, simply bolt the ladder to a horizontal platform and you are ready to use it!
* The steps feature non-slip rubber for your safety as well as a Velcro strap for securing the ladder in a non extended position.
* The design of this platform ladder makes it possible to be used as on a pontoon boat.
Adjustable foot
* This telescopic boat ladder is made to be bolted to a horizontal platform(Top of platform) such a the boat floor or side railings depending on the installation.It has adjustable foot.Hinged bracket allows for the ladder to fold over platform for easy fitting.
Step 1
Using the gudgeon as a template, mark the four bracket holes on the platform for drilling at desired location.
Please make sure the brackets located on a solid surface of the platform. If this is not possible,find a backing plate to make the platform strong enough for mounting.
Step 2
Drill the four marked holes with a suitable drill bit.Make sure to keep the dril perpendicular to the platform surafce.
Step 3
Mount the ladder to the platform with fasteners suitable for your paιticular installation.
Step 4
Periodically check fasteners tightness and polish the stainless steel with a suitable marine grade polish to increase longevity.Fold ladder up and secure when underway.
Safety Guidelines
- No jumping or diving!
- Do not use when motor is running
- This ladder designed for boat use only
- Only one person on ladder at a time
- Check all steps and hardware before using
- Never operate your boat with the ladder in "down" position
- Serious injury, or damage to your boat or ladder may happen.
Product description
Stainless Steel 4 Step Folding Marine Ladder Heavy Duty Telescoping Ladder for Boat Yacht Dock
Ladder is constructed of 1.5" diameter tubing. Telescopic length 19" to 64". width: 14". Comfortable handrails for easy boarding.US Warehouse.
- Made of 316 stainless steel
- Ladder is constructed of 1.5" diameter tubing.
- Ladder Telescopic length 19" (min) to 64"(max);Width: 14".
- Comfortable handrails for easy boarding.
- US Warehouse.
User questions & answers
Question: | How do I mount to a floating raft? No instructions were included |
Answer: | Assuming it is a wood raft/ deck you can use stainless steel bolts. Not sure if porous material, however I mounted to trex type dock with S.S.screws and wood under support. |
Question: | Can I anchor to concrete deck |
Answer: | Yes. It doesn't come with mounting bolts so I went to ACE Hardware and bought "304 Stainless" 2-1/2" long bolts, washers, and lock nuts to mount on my boat dock here in Cocoa Beach. I believe that it ended up being (3 each) 5/16" x 2-1/2" and (4 each 1/4" x 2-15"). I would think you could buy the same bolts and use concrete anchors that match. PS- the thing is actually heavier duty than I imagined it could be. |
Question: | Is there a weight limit for the ladder |
Answer: | Try looking at this Amazon posting of the same ladder, it says 400#s. Stainless Steel Boat Ladder Inboard Boat 4 Step Ladder Dock Ladder Marine Ladder by MarineMFRS 4.4 out of 5 stars 8 ratings Price: $199.99 & FREE Returns Get $20 off instantly: Pay $179.99 $199.99 upon approval for the Amazon Prime Store Card. No annual fee. 【HIGH QUALITY】Heavy duty all welded stainless steel construction can withstand harsh marine conditions and easy to maintain. 【MORE INTIMATE】Extra wide telescoping steps for more comfortable while extra tall handrails for more protection when you boarding. 【TELESCOPING】can slide smoothly, which is easy to open when used, and it can fully save space on the boat when not used. 【SELF SUPPORTING】Unique universal self-supporting design that requires no tube support/stand offs. 【LOAD BEARING】400 lb. |
Question: | Is the over all width 14 inches or is that inside width |
Answer: | 14" is the centerline of the ladder posts and the main handles. The inside width is 12-1/2" which is plenty for both me and wife climbing to and from our kayaks several feet below our boat dock. Very stable! |
- This is a 5-step rope ladder that is made of strong white PE (Polyethylene) rope and white PVC steps. The PE rope provides a firm grip and the steps are threaded / textured for safer docking purpose.
- This rope ladder is great for both outdoor and indoor use, especially during moment of emergency. The hanging part of the rope can be as long as approximately 40" depending on the size of your boat hook / cleat.
- It is suitable to be use on most kayak, boat, inflatable boat, and sailboat. Ladder can be conveniently folded for easy storage. The folded dimension is 12" (L) x 3" (W) x 5-1/2" (H).
- Height of steps (excluding rope): 39". Steps Dimension: 12" (L) x 2-3/4" (W) x 3/4" (H). Surface-to-surface of steps: 9-1/2". Please refer to the picture for more accurate measurement.
- Ladder weight capacity: 300 lbs. Item Number: P71075.
Product features
Pactrade Marine Inflatable Boat Kayak 5-Step White Folding PE Rope PVC Ladder for Emergency
The high quality Pactrade Marine Boat 5-Step Folding Rope Ladder is made of strong white PE rope and white PVC steps. This ladder provides a firm grip and the steps are threaded / textured for safer docking purpose. This ladder is suitable for use for most inflatable boats, kayaks, and sailboats.
The ladder can be folded for the convenience of boaters when not in use. Each step comes threaded and is made of non-slip PVC to provide more safety when using the ladder. Hanging rope can be adjusted.
Product description
About the Brand
Here at Marine City Hardware, we specialize in marine hardware products. We are all family and are all working together to bring our customers exactly what they need. Our motto is high quality, low prices, fast shipping and taking care of our customers. Everything is double checked and electronically tested before being sent out to insure the highest quality. Our company provides retail and wholesale services so you may also contact us if you want to order our products in bulk as well. Our exceptional prices and superior manufacture company make us the best around for any marine products. 100% Customer Satisfaction is our ultimate goal so we encourage you to message us because we will work for you.
- - Details: Stainless Color.Material Stainless Steel.
- - Maximum corrosion resistance and durability.Steps drop smoothly into water and also quickly stowed away while not in use.
- - Compact and efficient Design.Extra Wide Curve up Foot Steps Ergonomic design for comfort and easy use.
- - Easy to install easy to use and fold
User questions & answers
Question: | What is distance from deck, where its mounted, to the centerline of the standoffs |
Answer: | Appoximately 24 inches which on our boat leaves the bottom step above the boot strap and the waterline. It is difficult for the kids and my wife to climb out of the water when we swim if the bottom step is not in the water to step up to. I ordered the 5 step because the overall length is 57 inches making it easier to climb from the water. It's a few dollars more but if you have a larger boat (5ft draft) it will make all the difference. Very nicely constructed ladder otherwise. |
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