When it comes to boating, it’s important to know the proper terminology for any equipment or features on a vessel. One commonly asked question is what ladders are called on a ship.
The answer is that there are a few different types of ladders onboard a ship, and each has its own name depending on its location and function.
The most common type of ladder on a ship is the accommodation ladder, also known as the gangway. This is the long, portable ladder that is typically hung over the side of the ship to provide access to the vessel from the dock or another smaller craft. The term “gangway” actually refers to the opening in the ship’s railing where the ladder is placed. Accommodation ladders are often used when the ship is in port, as they allow passengers and crew members to more easily board and disembark.
Another type of ladder on a ship is the pilot ladder. This is a special ladder that is used when a pilot comes aboard to help navigate the vessel through tricky waterways. Pilot ladders are typically made of strong rope and are secured to the side of the ship using special fittings. They are required to meet certain safety standards to ensure the pilot can climb up and down safely.
On larger vessels, there are also emergency ladders, which are exactly what they sound like. These are ladders that are easily accessible in case of an emergency or evacuation. These ladders are typically located in various locations around the vessel, so that crew members and passengers can evacuate quickly if needed.
Finally, there are also the traditional ship’s ladders, which are smaller, steep ladders used to access different levels of the ship. These ladders are typically used by crew members to access areas like the engine room, and are sometimes called companionway ladders.
The term “ladder” can refer to a number of different types of equipment on a ship, each with their own name and purpose. Understanding the different kinds of ladders onboard can help boaters stay safe, get around more easily, and communicate more effectively with crew members when navigating the waters.