Bow Ladder for older boat?

[murphini]

All:<br />Have an 20' 89 VIP Victory bowrider, OMC 5.0 Cobra. Love it. In looking at new bowriders/deckboats it seems like the big new thing is a ladder in the bow to keep the wet kids contained vs. having them climb over transom, slip on the wet vinyl, etc. Seems like a great idea having them enter/exit from bow.<br /><br />Have searched web for retrofit kits or bow ladder accessories but haven't seen to find anything. Have found the Davis Rope ladder online and wondering if anyone uses it--or any other ladder to load from bow vs. stern/transom.<br /><br />Looking for any clever ideas.

 

[cuzner]

Re: Bow Ladder for older boat?

Years ago I used a rope ladder on a 16ft seahawk.Your kids may be able to get the hang of it ,but I had a hell of a time getting used to it and my girlfriend at the time refused to even try after watching (and laughing) me try to get back on the boat. I would suggest finding something more stable than rope.<br /><br /> Jim

 

[gsbodine]

Re: Bow Ladder for older boat?

You might try searching the Garelick products in the iboats marine mega mall. they make all kinds of different boarding ladders. I have a gunwale ladder for my older boat, so that the kids and wife can avoid the transom with the fishing gear, trolling motor, outboard, etc. Here's one similar to mine: <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/mall/index.cg...nt_category=garelick ladder&*******=548690893 <br /><br />the quality is good, and it floats in case it gets knocked off (or if you drive off forgetting it, not that I would ever do such a thing ).<br /><br />hope this helps in some way.

 

[datawire]

Re: Bow Ladder for older boat?

I've been considering one of the fold-down stainless steps to use when we beach the boat, to save wading to the back or anchoring and backing in. Might be a bit tough on bare feet though.