13 best folding boat ladders

Folding boat ladders are essential pieces of deck hardware designed to provide easy access to and from a boat, especially when it is in the water. They are commonly used on a variety of watercraft, including boats, yachts, sailboats, and even some larger personal watercraft like jet skis. Here are some key points about folding boat ladders:

  1. Design: Folding boat ladders are typically designed to fold or retract when not in use, making them compact and easy to store. When needed, they can be extended or unfolded to provide a stable means of climbing in and out of the water.

  2. Materials: These ladders are often constructed from materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or other corrosion-resistant materials to withstand the harsh marine environment and ensure longevity.

  3. Types: There are several types of folding boat ladders available, including:

    • Transom Ladders: These ladders are mounted on the transom (rear) of the boat and are commonly used for boarding from the water.

    • Telescoping Ladders: Telescoping ladders have sections that slide into one another, allowing for adjustable length and easy stowage.

    • Swim Platform Ladders: Designed for boats with swim platforms, these ladders attach to the platform and provide easy access for swimmers.

    • Pontoon Boat Ladders: Specifically designed for pontoon boats, these ladders are often mounted on the deck or pontoon tubes.

  4. Installation: Folding boat ladders can be installed in various ways, including bolt-on, clip-on, or flush-mount designs, depending on the type of ladder and the boat's configuration.

  5. Safety Features: Many folding boat ladders come with safety features such as non-slip steps or treads, handrails, and sturdy construction to ensure safe and secure boarding and disembarking.

  6. Weight Capacity: It's essential to consider the ladder's weight capacity to ensure it can support the weight of users comfortably.

  7. Use Cases: Folding boat ladders are used for various purposes, including swimming, snorkeling, diving, and other water activities that require easy access to and from the water. They are also crucial for safety and emergency situations.

  8. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including rinsing with fresh water after use to remove saltwater and debris, can help prolong the life of a folding boat ladder.

  9. Regulations: Depending on your location and the type of boat you have, there may be regulations regarding the installation and use of boat ladders. Always ensure compliance with local laws and safety standards.

Folding boat ladders are a valuable addition to any vessel, making it convenient and safe for passengers to enjoy water activities and access the boat while anchored or moored. Choosing the right ladder for your boat's specific needs and ensuring proper installation and maintenance are essential for a safe and enjoyable boating experience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best folding boat ladders on the market
  

Amarine Made Marine Boat Foldable Stainless Steel 3 Steps Ladders Stern Mount W Rubber Grips

Alfa Marine (Shanghai) Co., Ltd

Based on 195 reviews Check latest price
  • This High Quality smooth folding ladder is made of SS 304. Tubing is 7/8" thick
  • Dimensions when fully opened:24"H by 7"W Steps
  • adjustable standoffs with cushioned tips for correct fit
  • Each Step Has A Flat Tread Cover w/ Non-Slip Plastic for Safety.
  • Ladder folds compactly and it is 12.5" long when stowed.

User questions & answers

Question: What size bolts do I need to mount this
Answer: My gunnels are 9 inches wide and there's tons of room left I would say they would go up to 15 inches
Question: Does the latter spring up or do you have to lift it up to store It
Answer: 12.5" inside dimension. 15" outside. Works best along the side toward to rear of the boat.
Question: My transom is slightly at a angle. Will this still work on it
Answer: It doesn't permanently mount to the boat it just hooks onto the side of it.
Question: Back of my transom is slanted just a little. Will this still work good on it
Answer: It does not fold hooks turn size unknown

Product features

3 Step Folding Ladder Boat Marine Stainless Steel Pontoon Ladder Polished 2+1 Step 300-lbs. Weight Capacity

This flip down ladder works perfect on fishing boat. Made getting in the boat so much easier when tubing.This telescopic boat ladder is made to be bolted to a horizontal platform such as the boat floor or side railings depending on the installation.

The design of this platform ladder makes it possible to be used as on a pontoon boat.

Some of customers have also used this as a low profile dock ladder.

Installation is very easy, simply bolt the ladder to a horizontal platform and you are ready to use it!

The steps feature non-slip rubber for your safety as well as a Velcro strap for securing the ladder in a non extended position.

Sleek and contemporary design Telescopic closure to only 370mm for easy storage.

8.75 overall width. 7 inches inside width with 5 inch rubber treads, the dimensions from top bracket to rubber one is 8 inch.

SeaSense Boat Ladder (4 Step)

SeaSense

Based on 109 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our ladder is made of durable construction 304 Stainless Steel. Our 4 step ladder is compact and efficient, telsescopes and folds directly into the boat. Nylon locking strap is included.

  • Compact and efficient
  • 304 Stainless Steel
  • durable construction

User questions & answers

Question: What size gunnel does it fit
Answer: S/M fits him
Question: What is the distance between the hooks
Answer: No, This snorkel mask can't be used with eye glasses. It would not seal around your face with glasses
Question: how does it mount to the boat
Answer: My husband bought the mask for me & said to go to the mask’s actual website and there are measuring instructions & guidelines there
Question: What size is in when it is fold up to store in rod locker
Answer: Very easy to adjust

Amarine Made 4 Steps Removable Premium Stainless Folding Rear Entry Pontoon Boat Ladder w/Extra Wide Step

Amarine Made

Based on 275 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features



🛒 Ladder is constructed of 1.5" diameter



🛒 316 stainless steel tubing.



🛒 Comfortable 2" Wide steps.



🛒 Mounting Holes: 7



🛒 Hole Diameter: 1/4"



🛒 Handle Height: 17"



🛒 Overall Ladder Width: 16.25"



🛒 Distance to first step: 10.5"



🛒 Distance Between Steps: 10"



🛒 Max weight capacity: 400 lbs



🛒 Ladder Length (extended): 41.375"



🛒 Steps telescope closed; flips up for easy storage



⚠ Please note: " Mounting hardware is not included "

  • Heavy duty welded 316 stainless steel pontoon ladder. Unique universal self supporting design requires no support.
  • Extra wide telescoping steps for more comfort when boarding. Extra tall, comfortable handrails for easy boarding.
  • Stainless Steel 316 tubing * Telescopes and flips up *Rear Entry Ladder * Quick release mounting brackets * 400 lb. capacity
  • Ladder is constructed of 1.5" diameter .316 stainless steel tubing.(* mounting hardware is not included*) .
  • Steps telescope closed; flips up for easy storage; Comfortable 2" Wide steps. Hole Diameter: 1/4"

User questions & answers

Question: Are the retracting steps spring loaded
Answer: You have to fold it up and snap it into the clip to store it.
Question: If mounted on the front of a pontoon boat and the boat run up onto shore, can it be used with only 1 or 2 steps extended to exit the boat
Answer: It looks like it would.
Question: What size platform you need to have this fit
Answer: yes mine is also so i added chair bottom slip on rubber nubs i found at ace hardware to take up that little space or add a block of wood siliconed to the hull no hold that way to keep it more level.
Question: how, exactly, does the "quick release mounting bracket" work
Answer: Sorry-don't know--uses this as a towel rack in a nautical bathroom--looks great--but can't get back there to measure. Good luck!

Product features

Heavy duty welded 316 stainless steel pontoon ladder.

316 stainless steel tubing.

Steps telescope closed

Flips up for easy storage

Max weight capacity: 400 lbs

Mounting hardware is not included

Extra wide telescoping steps for more comfort when boarding

Mounting Holes: 7

Hole Diameter: 1/4"

Handle Height: 17"

Comfortable 2" Wide steps.

Overall Ladder Width: 16.25"

Distance to first step: 10.5"

Distance Between Steps: 10"

Ladder Length (extended): 41.375"

Ladder is constructed of 1.5" diameter

Amarine Made 4 Step Stainless Steel Telescoping Boat Ladder Swim Step

Amarine Made

Based on 528 reviews Check latest price
  • 100% Brand New Marine-Grade product
  • Durable construction - 304 Stainless Steel
  • Compact and efficient - Telescopic Design
  • Moulded Black vinyl tread to facilitate easy boarding and ensuring maximum grip for the user, reducing slippage
  • Hinged bracket allows for the ladder to fold over platform for easy fitting

User questions & answers

Question: will this work for a 17.5 Bayliner
Answer: We normally don't recommend this mask for children under the age of 12, as the respiratory system is not developed enough to recommend this mask. Breathing in the mask is comfortable and feels normal but is not recommended for younger children.
Question: Does this ladder have a warranty
Answer: I returned it to Amazon without issue and received a new one wth a different size.
Question: What's the weight limit for this
Answer: Yes, no water gets in at all.
Question: Will this hold up in Salt Water
Answer: Why not?My little boy uses it in the pool all the time.

Product features

4 Step Ladder Stainless Steel Telescoping Ladder, 900 Pound Capacity for Marine Yacht/Swimming Pool with Retaining Strap

No matter you are short or tall,slim or fat,even disabled or have a bad back or knee this is the right ladder for you.It will make the climb back into the boat after going for a swim easier and make your boating life happier.

Hoffen Telescopic 4 Step Ladder Stainless Steel Telescoping Extendable Ladder 900 Pound Capacity for Marine Yacht / Swimming Pool

Hoffen

Based on 444 reviews Check latest price
  • ✅ Durable construction - Marine Grade Stainless Steel
  • ✅ Smooth slide with nylon bushing between ladder sections prevent galling and inadvertent deployment
  • ✅ Hinged bracket allows for the ladder to fold over platform for easy fitting
  • ✅ A slight angle to make it easirer to board rather than straight up and down
  • ✅ Moulded Black vinyl tread to facilitate easy boarding and ensuring maximum grip for the user, reducing slippage

User questions & answers

Question: Can this be mounted flat to the transom
Answer: yes,you can mounted it to the tansom.if the foot of ladder can be mounted firmly,the ladder can be set up most parts.
Question: what are the inside dimensions at the top
Answer: 215.9MM
Question: I need to mount on the side gate of my pontoon. After mounting how is it stored when folded up? Is it going to require side gate to be open
Answer: It is designed to lay flat on the deck. Gate would need to be open to deploy and store. The way I read your question, I wouldn’t mount it ON the side gate. Hope this helps!
Question: What is the distance from the OD of the tube to the first screw
Answer: it is 7.5cm from the OD of the tube to the center of first hole .

Product features

Column

  • Slide smoonthly
  • Closely connected
  • Perfect polish

Foot

  • Adjustable foot
  • Fix ladder on yacht
  • 25.4cm mounting hole distance

Step

  • 4 steps
  • Skid-proof and soft nylon step
  • Fixed rope

2 Step Stainless Steel Telescoping Boat Drop Ladder

AISN: B072Q5XD1K

3 Step Stainless Steel Telescoping Boat Drop Ladder

AISN: B07DZSFHG5

4 Step Folding Rear Entry Pontoon Boat Telescopic Ladder

AISN: B0758C3FGG

4 Step Foldable Ladder Stern Mount W Rubber Grips Ladder

AISN: B07L3QR3RN

RecPro Marine Pontoon Boat 4 Step Folding Boarding Ladder AL-B4

RecPro

Based on 285 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Details: 300 lb. maximum capacity 1" round anodized aluminum tubing Plastic Steps Hardware provided (SS slots and studs – 1 set) Space-saving design Ladder must mount against a tube for support Height - 45" Step depth - 2.5" Width - 16"

  • Easy to use and store 4 step folding pontoon boat ladder.
  • Mounts easily and safely with a flush mount design (Includes LHW-B mounting hardware)
  • When folded, the slim design of this pontoon boat ladder means it can be stored easily when not in use or use the extra mounting clips to install on your railing and it's out of the way!
  • Ladder must mount against a tube for support

User questions & answers

Question: Two question Does this ladder come with 5 steps need dimenions of top radius
Answer: Only know it has 4 steps
Question: Will it fit a bay boat rather than a pontoon boat
Answer: I'm sorry. I have no idea. Order it. You can always return it.
Question: does the ladder kit come with flush mount ladder brackets or have to order seperate
Answer: It comes with one set of flush mount brackets you can order more brackets if you want to use ladder in multiple locations
Question: how many lbs does this weigh
Answer: Look at the item description. But it's very light weight.

DasMarine 3 Step Folding Ladder Boat Marine Stainless Steel Pontoon Ladder Polished 2+1 Step (Mounting Screws are Included), 300-lbs. Weight Capacity

DasMarine

Based on 46 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:



The ladder is designed to install on the back of your transom and free up space on your swim platform

The folding steps drop smoothly and quickly into the water to provide convenient boarding.

When you're done, the ladder easily flips up onto itself and locks into the attached brackets to ensure secure stowage.

Made of thick-walled 304 stainless steel tubing for durability and resistance to rust and corrosion.

Features low-profile plastic non skid tread on steps.

300-lb. capacity.

Length Deployed : 24" (610mm)

Centrum Width : 7" (178mm)

Surface Finish: Polished

Easy installation( instruction is not included)

Mounting screws are included

Tubing is 1" thick



Package Included:



1 x 3 Step Folding Ladder

4 x screws



  • 100% Brand New Grade 304 Stainless Steel with Electro-Polish finish
  • Nylon locking brackets to ensure secure stowage
  • Thick-walled stainless steel tubing, 300-lbs. weight capacity
  • Mounts on vertical platforms, perfect for installation on transoms
  • Ladder folds compactly and it is 12.5" long when stowed; Dimensions when fully opened:24"H by 7"W Steps

CO-Z 3-Step Collapsible Pool Ladder | Telescoping Boat Ladder with Stainless Steel Construction & Mounts for Swimming Pools Pontoons Docks and More | Folding Step Ladder with 270° Rotation

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price
  • HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION: Made of premium 304 stainless steel, CO-Z's 3-step folding telescopic ladder has a 330 lb. weight capacity and incredible corrosion-free performance for long service; its flexible brackets make it easy for you to mount your on any horizontal platform
  • COLLAPSIBLE DESIGN: With its telescoping design, this compact ladder can be quickly collapsed to only 1'2" and folded back onto the deck when not in use, saving space and extending its life
  • SLIP & WEAR RESISTANT: Your pool ladder's thick steps are covered with grooved PVC pads to ensure your solid footing even when soaking wet; its feet are protected by wear-proof foot caps to withstand daily abrasion
  • EASY TO USE: This step ladder is super easy to use thanks to its simple design; in addition to boats with platforms, it's also perfect for most swimming pools, docks, pontoons, and more!
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: We offer our usual strong warranty and friendly 24/7 customer service to help you start enjoying this handy boat ladder as soon as possible, worry free

Deluxe Gunwale Hook Ladders 11'', Available in 3 or 4 Steps

Garelick

Based on 63 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Every Garelick gunwale ladder features comfortable and sturdy white traction molded steps. Frame is made of durable 1'' diameter aluminum tubing. Thick vinyl covered 7'' or 11'' hooks protect your boat's finish. Hooks and standoffs fold flat for easy storage. Available in 3 or 4 step.

  • Country Of Origin: United States
  • Model Number: 05041
  • Item Package Dimension: 47.0" L x 15.13" W x 3.0" H
  • Item Package Weight: 6.0 lb

User questions & answers

Question: Are the standoffs adjustable. to another position
Answer: Yes
Question: do the pegs open wider than the ladder framework so they don't collapse when climbing up on it? Or do they lock into place
Answer: They are solid
Question: How far down are the standoffs from the top of the ladder
Answer: They are separate and can be placed anywhere you want on the ladder.
Question: How come this ladder does not come with the pegs on inside to protect boat like shown
Answer: There is two pegs that fold to hold ladder away from boat

White Water B00361 Stainless Transom Mount Folding Stern Ladder - 4 Step

White Water Marine Hardware

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

Product description

These easy-to-use White Water four step folding stainless steel ladders are designed to install on the back of your transom and free up space on your swim platform. The folding steps drop smoothly and quickly into the water to provide convenient boarding. When you're done, the ladder easily flips up onto itself and locks into the attached brackets to ensure secure stowage. Installs in minutes. Made of thick-walled 304 stainless steel tubing for durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. Features low-profile plastic non skid tread on steps. 300-lb. capacity. Mounting Gudgeons included

  • ? EASY TO USE: The folding steps drop smoothly and quickly into the water to provide convenient boarding. When you're done, the ladder easily flips up onto itself and locks into the attached brackets.
  • ? MARINE GRADE STAINLESS: Grade 304 Stainless Steel with Electro-Polish finish for maximum protection and corrosion resistance. Perfect for freshwater and saltwater marine environments.
  • ? EASY INSTALL: Installs in minutes. This ladder mounts on vertical platforms and is designed to install on the back of your transom and free up space on your swim platform.
  • ? VERY SECURE: Thick-walled stainless steel tubing with Nylon locking brackets to ensure secure stowage. Features low-profile plastic non skid tread on steps. (300-lbs. weight capacity)
  • ? DIMENSIONS: A: 33-1/2" B: 14-7/8" C: 9-1/4" D: 2-3/8" E: 4-1/4" F: 4-5/8" with Black Cap G: 17"

User questions & answers

Question: How long is that welded side tube? The short tube that keeps it away from and against the wall
Answer: The welded standoffs are 4-1/2" long.
Question: What size bolts are used to attach this? Are backing plates included
Answer: I used 1/4” x 3- 1/2” bolts and no back plates were included I used large washers it is a good ladder I am well satisfied with it

DasMarine 4 Step Ladder Under Platform Sliding Ladder Stainless Steel 316 Spring Loaded Latch with a Carry Handle (4 Step Ladder)

DasMarine

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:





Designed for under platform use - stows easily and compactly

Ideal for installations under swim platforms or under the deck on bow or side of pontoon boats

Ladder stows compactly within its own length

Spring loaded self-locking for stowage

No More dealing with Velcro Straps, Bungee Cords, and Rubber Straps

Carry handle for easy fold and unfold

Flat poly treads for increased comfort

316 stainless steel - rated to 1190 lbs.



Specifications:



L deployed: 46" (117cm)

L stowed: 18.5" (47cm)

Overall height: 3" (8cm)

W: 11.8" (30cm).

Support frame L 14.75" (37cm)

W 13.75" (35cm)

Four 3/8"(8mm) mount holes on each side





How To Mount



1. Choose the most suitable side of your transom platform for mounting the ladder.

2. When mounting, locate a place where the ladder will not interfere with the turning of the motor or be near the propeller of your craft.

3. Position the mounting bracket with the ladder in the area to be attached.

4.Mark the bracket’s eight mounting holes onto the deck surface.

5.Drill the eight marked holes with a suitable drill bit. NOTE: It is recommended to through-bolt this ladder for a secure installation

6. Mount the ladder in place by holding bracket up to platform and inserting mounting screws. Secure ladder in place with fasteners (not provided, as installations vary).



Safety Guildlines



No jumping or diving!

Do not use when motor is running

This ladder designed for boat use only

Face ladder when entering boat or water

Only one person on ladder at a time

Check all steps and hardware before using

Never operate your boat with the ladder in “down” position. Serious injury, or damage to your boat or ladder may result.



  • Designed for under platform use - stows easily and compactly with spring loaded latch and a carry handle for easy fold and unfold
  • Constructed of marine grade 316 stainless steel and have a proofload to support even the biggest swimmer. Each step has a slip-proof plastic tread to assure maximum safety.
  • This boat ladder is designed to be mounted below your swim grid or other platform. When stowed, it folds flat beneath your swim grid/platform. This leaves your swim grid completely unobstructed, yet the ladder can easily fold out at your convenience
  • Dimensions: Length Folded 18.5", Length Extended 46", Width (Outside of Bracket) 11.8", Proof Load 1190 lbs.
  • Package Included: 1 x 4 step ladder, 8 x mounting Screws are included and mounting instructions are not inlcuded (The diameter of the hole for screw is about 8mm/0.31inch)

User questions & answers

Question: When deployed is it vertical or angled
Answer: Depends on how the platform is mounted. If the platform is perfectly horizontal, the ladder will be angled. I think the designed angle of the ladder is to be at an angle so the tension is kept on it’s mounting bracket.
Question: Does the latter lock in the down position to prevent swinging
Answer: No
Question: Is there a way to adjust the tension in the springs
Answer: I hate to say it but the only way is to remove springs and cut one loop off each one- that made it easier but loose

CO-Z 4-Step Collapsible Pool Ladder | Telescoping Boat Ladder with Stainless Steel Construction & Mounts for Swimming Pools Pontoons Docks and More | Folding Step Ladder w 270 Degree Rotation

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price
  • HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION: Made of premium 304 stainless steel, CO-Z's 4-step folding telescopic ladder has a 330 lb. weight capacity and incredible corrosion-free performance for long service; its flexible brackets make it easy for you to mount your ladder on any horizontal platform
  • COLLAPSIBLE DESIGN: With its telescoping design, this compact ladder can be quickly collapsed to only 1'3" and folded back onto the deck when not in use, saving space and extending its life
  • SLIP & WEAR RESISTANT: Your pool ladder's thick steps are covered with grooved PVC pads to ensure your solid footing even when soaking wet; its feet are protected by wear-proof foot caps to withstand daily abrasion
  • EASY TO USE: This step ladder is super easy to use thanks to its simple design; in addition to boats with platforms, it's also perfect for most swimming pools, docks, pontoons, and more
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: We back this handy boat ladder with our usual strong warranty and friendly 24/7 customer service to help you start enjoying it as soon as possible, worry free!

Stainless Steel Boat Ladder Inboard Boat 4 Step Ladder Dock Ladder Marine Ladder

Based on 26 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:

3 year Limited Warranty.

Heavy duty all welded 316 stainless steel pontoon ladder.

Unique universal self supporting design that requires no tube support/stand offs.

4 extra wide steps that telescope for a nice clean look.

Extra tall handrails for easy boarding,produced by OEM boat builders.

weight capacity,400-lb.

Easily mounts to deck Flips up .

Rear Entry Ladder.

Quick release mounting brackets.



Specification:

Ladder is constructed of 1.5" diameter thick

Comfortable 2" Wide steps.

Handle Height: 19"

Ladder Length (extended): 43"

Overall Ladder Width ID: 12.2"

Overall Ladder Width OD: 15.3"

Distance to first step: 10.5"

Distance Between Steps: 10"

Hole Diameter: 1/4"



Note:

Please allow 0.5-1 inch difference due to manual measurement.(1 inch=2.54cm)

The color of the actual items may slightly different from the listing images due to different computer screen.

Assembling instruction is not included.

You will need your own screws/bolts to mount this.

Thanks for your understanding.



Customer Service:

If you have any question or suggestion about our product, please feel free to contact us. Your 100% satisfaction is our pleasure.

Whenever you install any product, please follow the installation manual and take care of the protective measures.

If you like our products and services check out our store for different sizes and models ladders.

  • 【HIGH QUALITY】Heavy duty all welded stainless steel construction can withstand harsh marine conditions and easy to maintain.
  • 【MORE INTIMATE】Extra wide telescoping steps for more comfortable while extra tall handrails for more protection when you boarding.
  • 【TELESCOPING】can slide smoothly, which is easy to open when used, and it can fully save space on the boat when not used.
  • 【SELF SUPPORTING】Unique universal self-supporting design that requires no tube support/stand offs.
  • 【LOAD BEARING】400 lb.

User questions & answers

Question: My item did not come with instructions . Is there anywhere that I can go to find this manual ? What size bolts are needed
Answer: when I installed mine I used 2"bolts 1/4"-20 stainless steel bolts. These can be purchased at any Home Depot, Menards or even your local hardware store. It's very easy to install just set the flat bolt holes on your surface slide it back until the two angle brackets are tight. Drill your holes then place the bolts into the holes and tighten. This is the best ladder we have ever had on our pontoon and we moved the location from the back to the front center of our deck and WOW, what a difference.
Question: Will this ladder work on a a '2005 skeeter sx200 bass boat
Answer: You would have to measure the attachment location I will say this a awesome ladder for the price.

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