cutting stern rail

[john]

very cold day again here in NE. Went to visit our newly aquired 27' hunter. Our stern rail does not have a removable center section for a boarding/swim ladder. We will be on a mooring and boarding via dinghy. This situation will never due for my apprehensive wife that won't enjoy ducking under stern rail to board. Here is my thinking. Cut the center section of the stern rail out, leaving about 1.5 inches of stock protruding. Cap the protruding ends and mount a foldable/retractable boarding/swim ladder to the stern for easy entry and exit. Any thoughts?Later if I want to get fancy, I might cut piece of teak to hinge for opening and closing safety.

 

[David]

John

My boat has no top stern rail but instead there is a short lifeline with a pelican hook.

 

[john]

After cutting out the rail...

this was my other replacement alternative.thanks

 

[Barry]

stern rail option

Cut an opening slightly wider than the swing up boarding ladder and attatch a 90 degree fitting, run stainless rail down to a stainless deck fitting. When you fold the ladder up, that will close the opening, and allow easy boarding. Hope this is clear for youBarryPerseverance

 

[Bruce]

In the meantime ...

... add one of those "add a steps". I have a lower stern rail, but the distance from the top of the swim ladder makes it difficult to step over. (I've fallen overboard in the attempt a few times). So I added one of those clip on wide steps until I could do the same thing you're attempting.