Gunwale Hook Ladders
Gunwale hook ladders hang over the side rail of the boat and lift off completely when you are finished. Nothing is drilled or bolted, which makes them the practical choice for rental boats, for craft you do not want to modify, and as a spare ladder stored in a locker. The hook depth has to match your gunwale — 7 in. and 11 in. are the two common sizes, and getting this wrong is the usual reason a ladder sits badly.
- Measure the gunwale width before ordering: 7 in. and 11 in. hooks are not interchangeable
- Stainless steel for salt water, anodized aluminum for fresh
- Three- and four-step models cover most freeboard heights
Related: Boat Ladders · Pontoon Ladders · Transom Ladders · Dive Ladders
