The Best Dock Ladders for a Lake House or Pontoon Boat
Ready to create some fresh new memories this summer? If you have a dock, you surely need a robust dock ladder for it. Sturdy and well-designed ladders are also crucial for safety on boats, especially when you’re out enjoying activities like boating or taking a dip in the refreshing water. And even if you don't plan to use your dock for swimming, it is still important to have a dock ladder attached for safety purposes.
Other than serving as the ultimate source of getting in and out of the water, a good dock ladder can help reduce the risk in case someone falls into the water. Whether you're getting your first dock ladder or replacing the old one, the online marketplace can prove vast — which is why we’ve curated a list of our favorite dock ladders of 2024!
Our Top Picks
Leading Dock Ladder Worth Considering for 2024
Best Overall
Whether you’re spending your summers by the lakeside or taking your pontoon out for a ride, this heavy-duty dock ladder can make things much safer. Made from quality aluminum that won’t rust, this strong ladder can hold up to 300 pounds and offers multiple step options, making it perfect for those who must accommodate various age groups.
The wide steps provide ample footing so you can safely get out of the water without losing your footing. Even though this ladder is pretty sturdy and durable, it is lightweight enough to be mounted with ease.
We chose this dock ladder to top the list for its amazing quality, exciting features, and reliable make.
Pros
- Doesn’t wiggle after being installed
- Can easily be relocated once installed
- Versatile ladder works for floating rafts too
Cons
- The packaging is very flimsy
Durable Material
This boarding ladder by RecPro features four sturdy steps that allow you to get a good grip on them, even with wet feet. Not only does this reduce the risk of you slipping, but it is a great addition to any dock or pontoon. Capable of extending to 48 inches below the deck, its super easy installation process makes it perfect for those who want a zero-fuss experience.
Featuring hooks that make it easy to install and remove this ladder, this dock ladder also has a quick-release mechanism that is very convenient. Adding to its ease, the featured hardware ensures you won’t spend more than a few minutes installing it.
Pros
- Made of heavy-duty aluminum
- Angled so that you can climb it easily
- The handrails are tall and easy to grab
Cons
- Steps have slightly sharp edges
Budget-friendly
This versatile dock ladder by Hoffen is a great pick because it can be used for your swimming pool and yachts. It’s got a durable frame made from stainless steel, and when combined with its extendable telescoping mechanism you can rest assured you won’t have to leave it hanging from your pontoon at all times.
The nylon bushing between sections keeps it from deploying on its own. And when you need to use the ladder, it will glide out smoothly and at a slight angle so you can climb it without trouble. Adding to its accessibility, its black vinyl molding allows you to get a good grip and avoid slipping.
Pros
- Has hinged brackets for easy folding
- This ladder is easy to assemble
- Can hold up to 900 pounds
Cons
- The ladder doesn’t have instructions
Portable Design
Packing for a boat trip can be annoying when you have tons of supplies, but this foldable dock ladder by Amarine Made makes it all the easier to pack. It can be folded down and is lightweight, making it the most portable option on this list. And unlike most materials prone to rust and oxidation, Amarine Made’s Foldable Boat Ladder is made of a strong stainless steel frame.
The heavy-duty welding and rubber threading make this a very durable and sturdy ladder, and because the wide frame features comfortable handrails it makes for a great choice for those with mobility issues.
Another great feature of this dock ladder is that it can hold up to 400 pounds!
Pros
- Telescopic design allows for easy folding
- Works great for swimming pools
- Easy to install
Cons
- Doesn’t come with spare screws
Easiest To Assemble
Since this dock ladder by VEVOR is lighter and can hold 350 pounds of weight, you can easily install it on your dock or pontoon and remove it once your visit is over. This dock ladder has two wide steps with rubber mats to help reduce slippage, and to add to its functionality there is also a reinforced pedal that also prevents injuries.
The best part about this removable dock ladder is that it has pre-drilled holes. Made of stainless steel that is both lightweight and rust-proof, this dock ladder is perfect for those who plan to sit close to the water’s edge.
Pros
- The ladder can be permanently fixed
- Compatible with quick-release mounts
- Angled handrails are comfortable to hold
Cons
- Edges are slightly rough
Dock Ladders Buying Guide
A good dock ladder is a piece of equipment that every boat needs. It allows you to comfortably leave the water and play a huge role in preventing accidents, and this helpful guide has all the information you need about dock ladders.
Types of Dock Ladders
Stairs
As the name suggests, this type of ladder has steps and usually hangs over the side of your boat. This type of ladder also works well for people with limited mobility since it is sturdy and has easy-to-grip handrails. You can often see this kind of dock ladder on yachts and it can be installed easily.
While you can pick from a different number of steps, the most common ones have three or four. Stairs also have anti-slip mats or rubber threads to help you get a better footing.
Fixed ladders
These are great for people that want a permanent ladder on their pontoon. This type of ladder works well for boat owners that don’t want to remove it each time, and it is usually made of stainless steel to accommodate harsher weather conditions.
Strong welding allows these ladders to support a lot of weight and stay durable for a long time. You don’t have to lift these ladders from the dock since they stay in place, and when it comes to cleaning maintenance is relatively low.
This sort of ladder also allows you to attach a raft to your boat.
Rope ladder
These types of dock ladders are lightweight and can easily be stored away after use. It can be nailed down to the dock and is made of rope that doesn’t break down easily, and since the rope is sturdy you can easily climb out of the water using the steps. The only downside to this type of ladder is that there is no additional support, making it difficult for the elderly, children, and those who suffer from mobility issues.
What to Know: How To Choose the Best Dock Ladder
Although there is no perfect type of ladder since all of them work well, there are some factors to consider before you buy one. If you have kids or elderly people in your family or social circle, then it’s best to get a ladder instead of a rope. A good hack when picking a dock ladder is dividing the ladder step by the distance between the water and your boat dock.
You can also choose a dock ladder based on the activities you want to do. For example, if you want to attach a raft or water ski using your boat, you should buy a sturdier fixed ladder.
People Also Asked
How many steps should my dock ladder have?
It's important to have a dock ladder that has at least two or three steps below the water. You can find this out by measuring how far the water is from your dock and dividing it by the height of your ladder. This can also help you determine the number of steps your ladder should have.
How do I clean my dock ladder?
If your dock ladder has water stains or needs a good cleaning, you can do so by using this simple hack. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar and put them in a spray bottle. From there, just spray your new solution onto your ladder and let it sit for a minute before wiping it off.
Will my dock ladder grow algae?
Aluminum can easily resist algae and is a great choice compared to other materials, like wood. When it comes to maintenance, you can also clean aluminum quite easily with a simple rag or wet cloth.