Built-in boarding ladder

[Jonas]

I'm building a Welsford-designed "Penguin," and am considering ideas for building in a boarding ladder. The idea I'm toying with at the moment is to cut a horizontal slot in the rudder below the waterline for a foothold. I would add horizontal steps to the rudder post above the waterline. These would be just wide enough to provide a foothold. These would be on both sides of the post, and one would climb up the rudder much like an electrical worker would climb up a telephone pole. Just wondering how the underwater slot would affect performance, and how workable such a setup would be.

[TomRobb]

Rather than a slot which only adds turbulant drag, why not an end-plate as Bolge has been doing for some time. Then in addition to the step's drag , you get some payback with the plate capturing the vortices from the rudder making it more efficient for its size. Free (almost) lunch :D

[Venchka]

Hi Jonas!

This is Wayne in New Orleans. We talked last year about Welsford designs. The Penguin must be going well if you are building the rudder.

I have thought about a ladder arrangement for my boat which has an outboard rudder as well. My concern is how easy will it be to climb the rudder if the boat is bouncing in waves and the rudder is flopping around? If you know this will work, I might do the same on my boat.

Since you have a nice flat transom, what about a fold up out of the way/fold down for use swim ladder? I'm not suggesting you buy from them, but the West Marine online catalog might give you some ideas.


Ladder Ideas (http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/SiteSearch?keyword=ladder&advanced=YES&searchDeptId=5)

Do you have any photos of the boat to share?

Good luck!

[Venchka]

Jonas,

The link I posted broke. Just go to West Marine online and search for ladders. They have several.

[Jonas]

TomRob and Wayne, thanks for your ideas. I'm sure that the best solution is the simplest. Still a long way from needing a rudder, Wayne, but I like planning ahead. Maybe I'm looking at the wrong end of the boat. Since the Penguin has a bowsprit and associated rigging, perhaps there is ample climbing gear already there when one needs an emergency way back on board.

[Bob Cleek]

Cutting a foot-hole in the rudder is a time-tested trick. For steps on the transom, though, I'd suggest the standard folding step. These are made of bronze or stainless and can be had from most catalogs. ABI makes them, as do others. Frankly, however, a nice spliced rope ladder is a suitable alternative and very easy to stow. Sure, without steps, your toes may end up against the topsides, but you'll live. On the other hand, the best solution is always, as the guy from New Orleans in Apocalypse Now said, "NEVER GET OFF THE BOAT!" LOL