mast ladders

[robmcg]

Following on from the mast step thread, does anyone have a recommendation for a mast ladder that runs up the mainsail track. Anything I should look out for in their use and are they really a practical option?
Rob

 

[Cloven]

I have a MastMate system.

http://www.mastmate.com/

Use it every season to climb the mast and remove/replace the wind intruments plus anything else needing done. I use it "single handed" and pull it up on the main halyard and then climb it using the waist belt as additonal security. No problems and a great bit of kit.

 

[Appleyard]

The one I have is the GET UP mast ladder http://www.hurst-marine.co.uk/

very similar to the above ,but from a UK company.

Very easy to set up and use, it has alternate steps until the last four where the steps are doubled,enabling you to stand and work easily at the masthead.

It came with a safety belt and storage bag. About £180 6 years ago and paid for itself first time out. Even SWMBO has used it,and she does not like heights.

 

[alan17]

Mast Ladder

I also have the Get Up mast ladder. I am not great with heights but quite happy with the Get Up. Certainly feels secure. Only prob that I have is hoisting it past spreaders. I tape up the steps that will end up above spreaders and then break the tape as I reach them whilst ascending.

Of course the mast track needs to be available. Therefore no use if you need to ascend whilst main is hoisted!

 

[stav]

Webbing steps on mast track slides, no idea of make but will take a look next time I down there and a photo.

 

[philip_stevens]

+1 for the MastMate with dedicated belt - around me and around the mast.

Been borrowed by a few of my friends as easy to use.

 

[Skylark]

I have one of these

http://www.gdeffee.freeserve.co.uk/

George is based in North Wales so I met him to collect my order enroute to my boat. Really nice, helpful guy.

I'd lost my wind indicator and couldn't get high enough in a bosun's chair. Not a cheap option, but cheaper than having the mast removed. The mainsail has to be removed from the track before use.

It's a strange feeling climbing up the ladder. I wear a harness and a spare halyard as a safety line. Sometimes I just hook (carabiner) the fall arrester around the nearest shroud or spreader.

My sliders are connected to the webbing by plastic ties, 2 to each slider. Slightly scarey but a few break almost each time I use the ladder.

Overall I'd recommend it.

 

[pvb]

My sliders are connected to the webbing by plastic ties, 2 to each slider. Slightly scarey but a few break almost each time I use the ladder.

Not sure I'd be entirely happy with that.

 

[doug748]

I made one with webbing stuff from a boat jumble. If you want to equip yourself similarly I would place the steps much closer together than you might expect and weight each one with a rung (vital) so it falls into place horizontally.

I have one of these
http://www.gdeffee.freeserve.co.uk/
My sliders are connected to the webbing by plastic ties, 2 to each slider. Slightly scarey but a few break almost each time I use the ladder.

You might consider getting rid and using lashings instead