Second Boarding Ladder . . .

[tpenfield]

On my old boat (Formula 330 SS) I've gotten used to having 2 boarding ladders via my special swim platform. On my new-2-me boat, it only has one boarding ladder off the port side of the swim platform.

I planned to add a second boarding ladder on the starboard side. I toyed with a few ideas, one of them was to make a full duplicate of the port side ladder, which is concealed with a hatch. It looked to be a bit involved, considering the little time that I have until 'launch day' (when ever that is). I also considered under the swim platform ladders, but the way the platform is designed on this boat would make the final step fairly awkward, if not impossible.

As a compromise, I came up with a design of a pocket ladder at about the height of the top of the swim platform. It would involve essentially an open ended 'box' that housed the swim ladder. The 'box' would be installed in the open space just under the swim platform surface and protrude out the side a few inches. The box would provide the water tight seal that the swim platform needs.

Here is my design . . .
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My PaperMate version of a CAD system . . .
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The pieces . . .
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I cut a big hole in the boat . . .
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Test fitting the box & ladder. . .
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The rubrail would provide some added buttressing for the ladder when under load so it would not tend to swing under the swim platform.
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The ladder 'assembly' will be held in by a combination of fasteners and adhesives. Two fasteners from the top of the swim platform and several along the rubrail.
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I used my 'laser focus' to mark the holes for the two top bolts . . .
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The holes were spot on . . . (minor miracle)
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Today, it is a run to the hardware store to get some more fasteners and 4200 adhesive. Then finish it up.

 

[Scott Danforth]

you know you could have bought that pre-made from GG Schmitt.

3 & 4 step flush mount ladders. https://www.ggschmitt.com/boat-ladders

good work. make sure that you seal the enclosure. you would not want a water ingress point

 

[tpenfield]

you know you could have bought that pre-made from GG Schmitt.

3 & 4 step flush mount ladders. https://www.ggschmitt.com/boat-ladders

good work. make sure that you seal the enclosure. you would not want a water ingress point

Yes, I have the drawing for the CG Schmitt 'flip-out' style ladder (P/N L5T44500C-1), which is similar to the OEM ladder on the port side. but I decided to go with this ladder (not sure the brand).

Still would need the 'box' though . . .

If this does not work out, then over next winter, I can probably go 'all-in' and duplicate the port side set-up. (maybe).

This ladder will be secondary (dog ramp), so it should suffice.

 

[Scott Danforth]

biggest issues with the box ladders is the sealing.

also, GG Schmitt patented the box ladder, however China didnt care and knocked it off anyway.

 

[alldodge]

Nice work, but those corners look like something waiting to get someone hurt. Slip off the swim deck, or just bump into it.

 

[tpenfield]

Nice work, but those corners look like something waiting to get someone hurt. Slip off the swim deck, or just bump into it.

Possibly - we shall see how it goes. It is mostly to secure the dog ramp when we boat with 4-legged friends

 

[briangcc]

I was gonna say those corners have "Ouchie" all over them. Might suggest rounding them if possible??

Otherwise, nice work as usual Ted.

 

[alldodge]

Possibly - we shall see how it goes. It is mostly to secure the dog ramp when we boat with 4-legged friends

Not that my change was a lot better, but I have a paws aboard ladder and modified it with to longer bolts. When ladder goes in the water the black protective caps are not there. So we pick up the paws and the bolts slide inside the ladder tubes and its secure. Just lift it off when needed

 

[alldodge]

Pic of the baby's and ladder

 

[tpenfield]

I'm too lazy . . . two boarding ladders . . . 1 for peeps and 1 for Paws . . .

 

[tpenfield]

I was gonna say those corners have "Ouchie" all over them. Might suggest rounding them if possible??

Otherwise, nice work as usual Ted.

Thanks for the comments guys

Yes, I did intend on rounding the corners as part of the finish work. This ladder will probably be dedicated to the dog ramp as needed, leaving the primary ladder for people.

I will say, that cutting into the swim platform, and my observations in general, this boat has very thick fiberglass. I went through 2 packs of saw blades.

Probably explains the extra weight difference (+ 2,200 lbs.) vs. my 330 SS.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Thanks for the comments guys

Yes, I did intend on rounding the corners as part of the finish work. This ladder will probably be dedicated to the dog ramp as needed, leaving the primary ladder for people.

I will say, that cutting into the swim platform, and my observations in general, this boat has very thick fiberglass. I went through 2 packs of saw blades.

Probably explains the extra weight difference (+ 2,200 lbs.) vs. my 330 SS.

the glass at the transom to hull bottom is probably close to 3/4"

yes, Cruisers are tanks

 

[tpenfield]

The boarding ladder is all set . . .
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The boat is ready to launch.

 

[nola mike]

OMG, I'm still shallow breathing about cutting a hole that large in a boat that expensive, esp so close to the water line. You're a brave man, looks good. My solution is leave the dogs at home.

 

[briangcc]

Nice job on rounding over those edges. Everyone will be happier