Maritime Access Systems — Accommodation Ladders & Gangways

Access at sea demands absolute reliability. EHL Group designs and engineers gangway and accommodation ladder systems that deliver precision, safety, and performance in every environment — from naval and commercial vessels to superyachts and offshore platforms. Each system is purpose‑built to overcome real‑world challenges, ensuring seamless operation, compliance, and confidence through the entire life of your vessel.

Engineered by EHL Group for precision, reliability, and operational safety

Overview

EHL Group designs and manufactures fully engineered accommodation ladders and gangway systems for naval, commercial, offshore, and yacht applications.
Each system is developed to solve the operational challenges faced by shipbuilders, naval architects, and vessel operators — from complex hull geometries to demanding safety, space, and deployment requirements.

Our gangways combine robust mechanical design with advanced hydraulic and motion control systems, providing reliability in all operating conditions — whether your vessel is moored, offshore, or conducting ship‑to‑ship operations.

The Challenge We Solve

Vessel access systems are among the most used — and most overlooked — components on any ship. Operators, builders, and designers frequently face:

Space limitations inside hulls for stowed systems.
Complex integration with existing vessel architecture and service systems.
Limited adaptability to different freeboards, trim angles, or sea states.
High maintenance due to fatigue, corrosion, or poor system sealing.
Safety and compliance risks when designs don’t meet international standards.

EHL’s approach resolves each of these through collaborative design, structural optimisation, and whole‑of‑life engineering support.

Our Solution

Designed to your vessel’s specific brief, every EHL system delivers a fit‑for‑purpose, operator‑ready access solution. Systems are available in automatic, manual, or hybrid operation, integrating seamlessly with onboard control systems or independent standalone interface.

We manufacture:

Folding Cantilevered Gangways — space‑efficient with articulated movement for dynamic positioning and tight hull recesses.
Telescopic Gangways — extending models for vessels requiring longer reach with compact stowage.
Static or Fixed Models — robust, low‑maintenance options for ports, barges, and shore‑mounted facilities.

All systems are engineered to perform in high‑load, high‑cycle conditions while remaining compact, corrosion‑resistant, and simple to operate.

Technical Highlights

Structure: Custom length and section profiles designed for load class and usage profile.
Materials: Steel, stainless steel, or aluminium options to suit vessel class and environmental exposure.
Drive Systems: Hydraulic or electro‑hydraulic with manual override.
Rail Deployment: Manual or automatic folding, single or dual-arm configurations.
Control: Push‑button or integrated bridge control, with local emergency manual release.
Lighting & Safety: Configurable LED lighting, anti‑slip treads, and guardrail systems designed to IMO and SOLAS requirements.
Compact Storage: Example — a 14.5 m HMNZS Canterbury ladder requires only 5 m (H) × 1.5 m (D) inside the vessel.
Deployment Time: Fully deployed or stowed in under 2 minutes.
Maintenance Interval: 6–12 months, with inspection access built into system design.

Compliance and Certification

EHL gangways comply with the following international shipbuilding standards:

Certified by Lloyd’s Register
SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea)
ISO 5488‑1979(E) (Accommodation ladders)
AS/NZS 1554.1:2011, AS/NZS 3678‑350, AS 2980:2007
AS/NZS 1554.4:2010, AS 3597‑1993 Grade 700
EN10204‑3.1 OPTIM 700 MC

Why Choose EHL

Built for Your Vessel: Every ladder or gangway is designed to match hull, deck, and operational constraints precisely.
Compact & Efficient: Minimal onboard space required without sacrificing reach or stability.
Safety-Centric Design: Automated, enclosed operations with single‑operator control ensure safety at every stage.
Proven Durability: Engineered for continuous service — built to naval‑grade standards and verified through real‑world deployments.
Rapid Deployment: Less than two minutes from stored to operational configuration.
Whole‑of‑Life Service: From commissioning to scheduled maintenance, refurbishment, and upgrades — EHL provides full lifecycle support.

Results: Confidence in Every Operation

By integrating EHL gangway systems, clients gain:

Reduced build‑time integration risks through detailed CAD collaboration with naval architects.
Operational efficiency — fast, reliable deployment with minimal crew involvement.
Predictable maintenance schedules supported by EHL’s service and inspection programs.
Compliance assurance — verified to international classification and safety standards.
Extended service life through durable materials, modular design, and through‑life support.

Partner with EHL

EHL’s engineering team works alongside global shipbuilders, defence programs, and luxury yacht designers to deliver reliable, safe, and serviceable access systems — tailored to each vessel’s operational profile.

Whether you need a new-build design, retrofit solution, or full lifecycle service program, EHL can provide the expertise to make your project safer, faster, and more efficient.

Discuss your vessel access project with our team

solutions@ehlsolutions.com