MARINE PRODUCTS
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 line of Marine Dock Ladders can be used in salt water or fresh water and are NOT to be used in chlorine water, swimming pools or other similar corrosive environments.
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
Please call and speak to our helpful, well trained staff for answers to your product questions, get a freight quote to your location or to purchase a Marine Stairway, Marine Ladder or Marine Gangway.
Benefits of an Aluminum Gangway
Aluminum gangways offer many benefits that other types of gangways do not. The material is light, strong, slip-resistant, and can withstand adverse weather. 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.
Our aluminum gangways come in many different sizes to fit every need. Contact us today to find the perfect option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dock Ladders
-
A dock ladder is a marine access ladder designed to provide safe entry and exit between the water, dock, or pier. Dock ladders are commonly used for boat access, swimming access, and general marina safety. Diverse Supply offers a wide range of dock ladder styles, including straight ladders, swing ladders, lift ladders, and floating dock ladders, all built for durability in marine environments.
-
A dock ladder is permanently or semi-permanently mounted to a dock, pier, or seawall, while a boat ladder is typically mounted directly to a vessel such as a pontoon boat or sailboat. Dock ladders are ideal for frequent water access at marinas and docks, whereas boat ladders are designed for onboard boarding and swimming access. Diverse Supply offers solutions for both dock-mounted and boat-mounted ladder applications.
-
Diverse Supply offers several dock ladder styles to meet different access needs, including lift dock ladders, swing dock ladders, finger pier ladders, floating dock ladders, straight ladders, and folding marine ladders. Each style is designed to address specific dock heights, water levels, and usage frequency while providing safe and reliable access.
-
Yes. Our marine ladders are designed for both saltwater and freshwater environments. Aluminum and stainless steel construction offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. However, specific models may not be intended for use in chlorinated pools or similar highly corrosive environments, as noted in product guidelines.
-
Most dock ladders are constructed from aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum dock ladders are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easy to install or remove, while stainless steel dock ladders offer a premium appearance and enhanced durability for heavy-use marine applications. Both materials provide long-term performance in harsh marine conditions.
-
A lift dock ladder is designed to pivot or lift out of the water when not in use. This helps reduce marine growth, extend ladder life, and improve dock safety. Lift dock ladders are ideal for tidal areas, floating docks, and locations where water access is occasional rather than constant.
-
Choosing the right ladder depends on dock height, water depth, usage frequency, and whether the ladder needs to be fixed, folding, or retractable. Finger pier ladders and floating dock ladders are well-suited for fluctuating water levels, while fixed straight ladders work well for consistent dock heights. Diverse Supply’s knowledgeable team can help match the right dock ladder to your specific marine application.
-
Yes. Diverse Supply’s dock ladders are designed with safety in mind, featuring slip-resistant steps, wide rungs, and sturdy mounting systems. Many models include angled designs or wide steps to improve stability and reduce the risk of slips when entering or exiting the water.
-
Many of our models are designed for easy seasonal removal and storage. Lift ladders, swing ladders, and removable dock ladders can be detached or raised during off-season months, storms, or winter storage, helping extend product life and protect docks from damage.
-
Absolutely. Diverse Supply’s experienced team understands marine access equipment and can assist you in selecting the right ladder based on your dock type, water conditions, and usage needs. We’re happy to answer product questions, provide freight quotes, and help you find a safe, durable solution for your marine environment.