Bathing Platform

A platform at or near the stern that provides access between a vessel and the water.

It may be moulded into the hull, fixed externally, folded or lowered hydraulically. A ladder, handhold, non-slip surface or tender-handling fittings may be incorporated, but the precise arrangement and permissible loads depend on the vessel.

People using the platform are close to propellers, exhaust outlets, waves and other moving craft. Propulsion should be secured as appropriate, the platform’s load and movement limits observed, and the means of climbing back aboard checked before anyone enters the water.