Fender Steps/Guardrail gates

[P4Paul]

We are in the process of changing boats and while this is exciting I have noticed just how much higher the freeboard is on the new addition to the family. This isn't made any easier by the lack of guardrail gates as the current owner didn't see the point in spending the extra.

What kind of solutions have others come up with, I have looked at fender steps but where would you tie them off as looking around most people tie them to the gate stanchions.

Thanks in advance

 

[AIDY]

we dont have a gate. but attach the fender step to the centre cleat. it ideally need to be near the shrouds to make it easy to jump up easily.

 

[ianat182]

Guardrail and fender steps

Most of your problems with higher free-board come when mooring up in the marina,here the crew needs to jump down on to the pontoon to make fast, and, if they are not in their teens have every chance of doing themselves an injury,either on slippery surfaces, or jarring their back,even when alongside.
I believe that a wire 'gate' in the lifelines at the shroud position fastened by pelican hooks, and fender steps, are an answer. However the stanchions may need reinforcing here as the crew would no doubt support themselves when getting on or off the yacht. The 'gate' could also be made from stainless tubes rather than wire ,with a carabiner clip at both ends to open/close the gate.

 

[Tranona]

For boarding we use a set of folding steps that hook into plates on the deck. Have plates on both sides. Not much use for jumping off but arguably better than fender steps for boarding.

I made the mistake of not ordering gates as the boat is in the Med, but have rather regretted it as it is a big job to retrofit.

 

[Skysail]

Agree that at the shrouds is best - crew needs to be forward for ease of stepping on to a short pontoon whwn mooring, and the shroud gives you something stable to pull on when getting on the boat. We have a gate, and SWMBO still prefers the fender step.