fat boys afloat

[tmcalavy]

Okay guys and gals,<br />Here's a big ole boy (BOB) question for you, and I'm serious. I stand about 6'4 and push the scales to about 265. I can't find a ladder that is easy for me to get back in the boat, a 15 foot bowrider fish/ski. So how do you other BOBs do it? Is there a simply way to get in at the bow or near it? I don't want to give up swimming and tubing, nor do I want to buff up and lose weight. Staying the shallow end isn't an option either.

 

[6MISFITZ]

Re: fat boys afloat

Go through the classifieds in IBOATS or other on - line Boating Stores. Search under ladders.<br />Also check out some local marinas if they are close by. There are many styles out there and some which address your concern.<br /><br />In my case I found a ladder extension. I have also seen home made rope ladder extensions that are drilled into the bottom step of your original ladder and then use a knot to locate the correct distance between steps. Then when not in use just it locks with the bottom step. The best ones I have seen, are the ladders that have a center tube design with steps that are open on the out side. That design lets you wear scuba fins and climb up just as easy. <br />Good luck.

 

[Ross J]

Re: fat boys afloat

Hi Tim Mc,<br />I'm also 6'4" and weigh in at 136kg = 300lbs ish.<br />I use a rope ladder over the stern of my 16' boat.<br />It works well for me. My wife has some trouble with her balance though so I usually just bring the boat into shore for her.<br />Ross

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: fat boys afloat

Hey Ross J,<br />I know your in Kiwi land (my compliments bro) but where did you get that rope ladder? How long and how much? Been web searching, but not many results for us BOBs. Thanks.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: fat boys afloat

Purchase a ladder of substantial length. I found a 4 rung ladder works better by having the extra rung that hangs lower in the water.<br /><br />Get creative and re-build the ladder by adding extra supports under each rung. I have re-built many boat ladders and have added hardwood under each rung. A good drill, a good saw, stainless steel screws and a little patience works great.<br /><br />Bob Hmmmm, big ole boy? Well I guess it the descpition fits.....

 

[jocko_nc]

Re: fat boys afloat

LOL.<br /><br />I go to the gym so as to be able to pull my own excessive weight! 280. It's a vicious cycle...<br /><br />jocko

 

[Ross J]

Re: fat boys afloat

Hi Tim Mc,<br />The rope ladder design was from a rope knot book I've owned for years and I built the rope ladder myself to suit the boat. It stored flat in a small locker so theres no intrusion into the boat. I hang it from the stern cleat when in use. As soon as this weather breaks I'll photograph it on the boat and post it here!<br />I got it from an earlier edition of this book -http://www.bruceroberts.com.au/books/knots.htm<br />Ross

 

[Franki]

Re: fat boys afloat

I too am 6 foot 4 and about 120kg (bout 260 pounds)... funnily enough I have alot less trouble getting into the boat them most of my lighter passangers.. when I grap the bow to climb in, it usually pulls the bow down well a heap and its easy enough to swing a leg up.. but generally I get in at the stern..<br /><br />the two things that has made that easier on past boats has been:<br /><br />a: A platform off the transom bottom.<br />(you can buy them, or build them).<br />b: ladder with fold down bottom rung.<br />(I built my last one and have started cutting metal for the new one.)<br /><br />I like the rope idea though.. I might try that instead. but will make the rungs from wood.. easier for the ladies then rope rungs. (assuming thats what they are.)<br /><br />regards<br /><br />Frank

 

[crab bait]

Re: fat boys afloat

BOATS US sells a orange plastic rung fold up rope ladder for around $25.00 ..it 's called an emergentcy ladder or something.. i have one so if some ones falls in ,in cold weather..