Click for larger view

I made a boarding step for our boat out of inch and a half white PVC several years ago so that the admiral had a way to easily get aboard. It is about 18 inches long and 12 inches deep with 90 degree elbows at each corner. In the center of the deep side are tees with a piece of PVC connecting them. Around each of the three pipes I installed 3M self-adhering non-skid from Home Depot.

Click for larger view

At each corner I drilled a hole for a 5/16th inch SS eyelet bolt that is secured with a backing washer and self-locking nut. I used 3/8th inch double braid line between each eyelet on both sides with a carabiner that clips onto the toe rail. There is enough line so that the step is mid way between the dock and deck.

Click for larger view

The two carabiners allow me to unclip from one side and move it to the other depending on side tie. While underway I clip the step onto the outside of the life lines next to a gate where it rides safely out of the way until needed. It is very strong and will hold well over two hundred and fifty pounds (test weight).

Click for larger view

One of our boating buddies gave me the idea for this step design. Made one for our first boat in 1999 and a new one for our current boat in 2002. When I arrive or cast off from a dock, my dock lines are ready at the gate where I install the step. The first line I grab when stepping off is the mid ship cleat line followed by the bow line. The mid ship line steadies the boat close to the dock, and the bow line usually counters any drift from wind or current.

Click for larger view

By clipping the carabiners at an angle it helps to steady the step when boarding. I have since added new nonskid to the outer part of the step that was worn away from use.