MARINE LADDERS, GANGWAYS, AND DOCK PRODUCTS
Our marine ladders cover everything from a simple gunwale hook ladder that clips onto a boat to swing-and-lift dock ladders built for tides and changing water levels. A marine boat ladder needs hardware that won't corrode in saltwater, so our gunwale and gate ladders are built to hold up on the water without the maintenance of a painted or steel option. We also carry aluminum gangways and stairways for boarding and pier access. Tell us your dock height, boat type, or application, and we'll point you to the right ladder.
Marine Ladders, Gangways, and Stairways for Salt Water and Fresh Water
Climbing off a boat onto a dock puts you on wet, uneven footing right when it matters most. Platforms and Ladders builds marine ladders that are stable and hold their grip in salt water and fresh water alike, so getting on and off the water doesn't depend on a rusted-out ladder nobody trusts. These aren't standard ladders adapted for marine use. They're built for it from the start, and our staff can help you match the right one to your setup.
Our marine dock ladders are used in salt water and fresh water environments. They're not designed for chlorinated pools or other similarly corrosive environments.
PlatformsandLadders.com has a well trained staff that understands Marine Ladders, Gangways and Stairways. Accordingly, we are ready to provide insight during your search and purchase of a Marine Boarding Ladder, Aluminum Gangway, Removable Aluminum Stairway, Pier Ladder, Dock Ladder, Lift Dock Ladder or Custom Marine Stairway Ladder.
Our Marine Ladder, Marine Stairway or Marine Gangway product line may be ideal for the following applications:
Beach Access
Boat Access
Marine Docks
Piers
Out of reach warehouse areas
Benefits of an Aluminum Gangway
Most of our gangways are built from aluminum, and there's a reason beyond weight. Aluminum gangways offer many benefits that other types of gangways do not. Aluminum resists the corrosion that breaks down wood and steel near salt water, stays sure-footed when wet, and holds up over years of dock use with far less maintenance. Here are some of the benefits of choosing a gangway made from aluminum.
Better Traction
When exposed to water and other elements, some materials such as wood can become slippery and dangerous. Algae, moss, and mold can grow on wooden surfaces and create an unsightly film that can be unsafe. However, an aluminum gangway is built with multiple levels of traction to provide a safe walking surface. Cleats provide an extra layer of safety to prevent slips and falls, and the side rails provide an extra level of safety.
Seasonal Storage
The unit can be easily dismantled and stored during seasons when the gangway is not in use. In fact, the process is so easy that it can be removed and stored during storms and floods and replaced afterward. This makes it the perfect option for beaches that are open on a seasonal basis or for boat access when the gangway needs to be moved on a regular basis.
Weather Resistant
The high salt content of the water and air near the ocean has an extremely corrosive effect on certain types of metal. In fact, saltwater can corrode metal almost five times faster than fresh water. Heavy steel gangways that are kept near the water without regular removal for proper maintenance can become rusted and lose their structural integrity faster. Wood gangways are also susceptible to the damaging effects of saltwater. Dried out salt crystals can separate and weaken the wood over time, and any water can cause rotting.
Our aluminum gangways provide an excellent alternative because they have been designed to be resistant to rust and corrosion. While wood and steel need regular maintenance and painting to keep them from breaking down, our gangways will stay in great shape with less maintenance.
Easily Transportable
While some gangways are built from heavy and cumbersome materials such as steel, our gangways are built with materials that are both durable and light. The aluminum structure allows the gangway to be transported from one location to another, often by only two people. The gangway can be installed easily to the new location using the easy-to-use mounting bracket that anchors it quickly and securely. Wheels on one end make transportation even easier.
Environmentally Friendly
Aluminum is one of the best materials to recycle. In fact, aluminum is one of the only materials that can be recycled again and again without degrading and takes only a small percentage of energy to recycle. When compared to wood (which takes a great deal of energy to produce) iron, and steel, the recycling process is much easier. While other metals can be recycled over and over, few metals are both infinitely recyclable and as easy to recycle.
Cost-Efficient
Our aluminum alloy, in addition to being lightweight, rust-resistant, and durable, is also one of the most cost-efficient materials. These savings are passed on to the customer making it a great investment. These gangways are a great option for companies or individuals wishing to save money but still get a great product.
Get a Quote on a Marine Ladder, Gangway, or Stairway
Tell us where it's going – dock, pier, boat, or beach – and how it'll be used, and we'll recommend a marine ladder, marine boat ladder, or aluminum gangway that fits, along with a freight quote to your location. We hold GSA Contract #47QSWA22D006L and are MBE certified for government and municipal buyers. Get in touch, and our staff will steer you in the right direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
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A marine ladder is a fixed or lift-style ladder for climbing straight up from the water or a dock, like our swing, lift, and folding ladder styles. A gangway is a walkway set at an incline, usually for boarding a boat or crossing from a dock to a pier, built to handle foot traffic rather than a single climbing point.
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No. Our marine dock ladders are built for saltwater and freshwater use on docks, piers, and similar marine settings. They're not designed or rated for chlorinated pool water or other similarly corrosive environments.
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Most of our marine ladder line is aluminum for its combination of light weight and corrosion resistance. However, we also offer a premium stainless steel gate marine ladder for buyers who want that material. Both hold up to saltwater and freshwater use.
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A lift ladder raises out of the water when it's not in use, which keeps it clear of boat traffic and cuts down on exposure to marine growth. A fixed or straight ladder stays in place at all times, which is simpler but means more constant water contact.
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Yes. If a standard marine ladder, gangway, or stairway doesn't fit your setup, we can build a custom marine stairway or ladder to your specifications.
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Pricing varies by model and size, and freight costs depend on your delivery location since these are often larger, heavier pieces of equipment. Call our staff for a model recommendation and a freight quote before you order.