Searush
New member
Sorry, Searush,
but I'm 100% with the people advocating a rigid ladder extending well below water level.
I'm 49 & fairly fit, and wasn't over-clothed when I went into the water recently; the step at water level was impossible alone, I ended up being pulled into the cockpit after a great struggle by my very fit chum - alone, a non starter, but if I'd had a decent rigid ladder extending deep enough to get a foot hold on, it would be different, I think.
Remember it's not just the weight of sodden clothes, the trousers tend to vastly restrict movement of one's legs.
Please see the 'Are your Topsides Climbable ?' thread, on this forum.
Mine is rigid - but telescopic for storage. I have tried rope ladders, even with weighted rungs & rigid tubular sides, they are useless as they curl away when you try to climb. I agree water level is no good, I simply said it doesn't need to go 4' deep - 18" is ok for a reasonably fat pensioner like me.
Electrosys;
Sure, it won't be any good for the terminally ill 83 year old lady dropped by the Norwegians recently, but I don't have people on my boat that are that ill. It's mainly for me, - and possibly my family & friends. Why create issues that I know don't apply?