An embarkation ladder is a SOLAS-required rope ladder used during emergency abandon ship situations.
It’s rigged at survival craft stations- typically near lifeboats or liferafts, to allow crew members to safely descend into the water or survival craft after launch.
Unlike gangways, accommodation ladders, or pilot ladders used during regular operations, an embarkation ladder is exclusively for emergencies, ensuring safe evacuation when mechanical launching devices can’t be used.
🔎 SOLAS Regulation III/11.7: Embarkation ladders must permit crew to board survival craft safely after launching. They must be ready for immediate use during abandonment.
Purpose of the Embarkation Ladder
The core function of an embarkation ladder is emergency escape.
It’s designed for:
- Boarding lifeboats or liferafts when they’re already in the water.
- Serving as an abandon ship ladder in scenarios where mechanical access (e.g., gangways or davits) is unavailable or unsafe.
- Complying with international maritime safety conventions (SOLAS, ISO, MCA).
🧠 Pro Tip: Despite the name “embarkation”, this ladder is actually used to disembark from the vessel, and embark to survival crafts.
🧰 Types of Embarkation Ladders
There are two approved types of embarkation ladders under SOLAS and ISO standards:
🔹 1. Conventional Two-String Ladder
- Material: Hardwood steps, manila side ropes
- Structure: Two side ropes with wooden steps in between
- Use Case: Common on merchant ships
- Design: Resembles a pilot ladder but without anti-twist spreaders
🔸 2. Three-String Ladder (Enhanced Type)
- Structure: Three ropes- two on the sides, one in the center
- Approved by: MCA & ISO for added step stability
- Use Case: May be required in certain flag states or vessel classes
- Design Note: Center rope prevents step rotation during descent
📷 Visual Tip: Diagrams or onboard photos comparing the two types improve understanding, especially for training guides and inspections.
⚙️ SOLAS & MCA Construction Requirements for Embarkation Ladders
Embarkation ladders are not just random rope ladders.
Their construction is strictly regulated by international safety bodies like SOLAS, IMO, MCA (UK), USCG, and ISO to ensure they can withstand emergency use under harsh marine conditions.
📏 Standard Requirements for Embarkation Ladders
To be SOLAS-compliant, an embarkation ladder must meet the following:
- Location: Installed adjacent to survival craft stations, accessible and ready to use during emergencies.
- Design: Rope ladder format, manually deployable, and stowed near or above the craft.
- Step Material: Must be made of hardwood or approved equivalent, non-slip, and free of splinters, knots, or sharp edges.
- Spacing: Steps must be evenly spaced, with gaps between 300 mm to 380 mm.
- Securing: Steps must remain horizontal when rigged.
目 Conventional Two-String Ladder (Specs)
According to MSN 1676(M) Amendment 1 (UK MCA), a two-string embarkation ladder must have:
- Step Size:
- Length: ≥ 480 mm
- Width: 115 mm
- Depth: 25 mm
- Side Ropes:
- Two manila ropes, uncoiled, 20 mm in diameter
- Breaking strength: ≥ 24 kN per side rope
- Step Features:
- Non-slip coating or longitudinal grooving
- Smoothly machined, no knots or defects
- Horizontal Rigging: Must stay level when deployed
🧵 Three-String Ladder (Specs)
For enhanced stability, some ladders feature a third rope in the center. SOLAS and ISO permit this alternative, provided it meets:
- Step Size:
- Length: ≥ 1370 mm
- Width: 115 mm
- Depth: 25 mm
- Ropes:
- Two side + one center rope, all 20 mm manila
- Non-Slip:
- Either grooved wood or approved coating
- Horizontal Alignment: All steps must remain stable and level
🛠️ Why the third rope?
The center rope adds extra torsional stability, reducing the chance of step rotation- especially useful in rough seas or for less experienced users.
Replacement Steps
Embarkation ladders can have a maximum of two replacement steps under these conditions:
- Replacement steps must be:
- Supplied by the original manufacturer
- Different color from regular steps
- Marked clearly: “REPLACEMENT STEP ONLY”
- Material must match original specs (hardwood or approved rubber)
- Both USCG and ISO support this repair limit
⚠️ Note: If more than two steps are damaged, the ladder must be replaced in full.
✅ Summary Table: Embarkation Ladder Construction Specs
| Feature | Two-String Ladder | Three-String Ladder |
|---|---|---|
| Step Length | ≥ 480 mm | ≥ 1370 mm |
| Rope Type | 2 x 20 mm manila | 3 x 20 mm manila (with center) |
| Step Material | Hardwood or approved equivalent | Same |
| Anti-Slip | Grooves or coating | Grooves or coating |
| Replacement Allowed | Max 2 steps | Max 2 steps |
| Breaking Strength | ≥ 24 kN | ≥ 24 kN |
🆚 Embarkation Ladder vs. Pilot Ladder: Key Differences
Though similar in appearance, embarkation ladders and pilot ladders serve very different purposes aboard ships.
| Feature | Embarkation Ladder | Pilot Ladder |
|---|---|---|
| Use Case | Emergency escape (abandon ship) | Boarding/disembarking pilots and visitors |
| Location | Near survival craft (lifeboats, liferafts) | Along the ship’s side (pilot access point) |
| Construction | All wooden steps (some exceptions) | First 4 steps made of rubber (shock-absorbing) |
| Spreaders | ❌ No spreaders | ✅ Has anti-twist spreaders |
| Replacement Policy | Max 2 steps, must be marked and color-coded | Any damage = full replacement (in most cases) |
| Rope Configuration | Two- or three-string setup | Two-string only |
🧭 Quick Tip: While both ladders use hardwood and manila rope, pilot ladders are designed for underway use, often exposed to dynamic conditions like swell and side impact- hence the rubber and spreaders.
⚙️ How to Rig and Use an Embarkation Ladder
Rigging an embarkation ladder is relatively simple, but must be done correctly during emergencies to avoid injury.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
🔧 Step-by-Step Procedure:
- Remove Canvas Cover
Ladders are usually stowed rolled up and secured in canvas. - Deploy with a Partner
With a crewmate, begin lowering the ladder carefully from the top step downward. - Fully Extend
Unfurl until the entire ladder is hanging free over the ship’s side. - Check Securing Pad-Eye
Ensure the pad-eye or securing point is properly lashed and structurally sound. - Begin Descent Carefully
Wear your life jacket, climb one at a time, and maintain a firm grip. - Board Survival Craft Safely
Avoid jumping. Get as close to the lifeboat or raft as possible and transfer from there.
🗺️ Where to Find Embarkation Ladders on Board
Embarkation ladders are typically located:
- 🔸 Near davit-launched lifeboats (port and starboard midship)
- 🔸 Beside life raft stations
- 🔸 On forward stations with dedicated life raft setups (common on tankers and bulkers)
All SOLAS-compliant vessels are required to have embarkation ladders positioned near survival crafts for immediate use.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔹 Is an embarkation ladder the same as a pilot ladder?
No. While they look similar, embarkation ladders are for emergency escape, while pilot ladders are for routine boarding at sea.
🔹 Can I use an embarkation ladder to board the ship?
No. It’s not designed for normal boarding operations. It lacks anti-twist features and is often stowed in an emergency-only configuration.
🔹 Are rubber steps required?
Only pilot ladders must have rubber steps. Embarkation ladders may use rubber on the first few steps but it’s not mandatory.
🔹 How often should they be inspected?
Embarkation ladders should be checked during weekly and monthly safety inspections, and always before abandon ship drills.
🔹 Can I replace a broken step?
Yes- up to two replacement steps, but they must be:
- Supplied by the original manufacturer
- Color-coded and marked as “REPLACEMENT STEP ONLY”
⚓ Final Thoughts: Know Your Safety Ladders
Embarkation ladders may seem basic, but their correct use and construction can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.
As a seafarer, it’s your duty to:
- ✅ Know their purpose
- ✅ Identify them onboard
- ✅ Understand SOLAS/MCA specs
- ✅ Practice rigging them during drills
🔔 Safety Reminder: Familiarize yourself with both pilot and embarkation ladders. In emergencies, hesitation wastes precious time.
May the winds be in your favor.
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