Hi, Janice. This is an extremely important reminder for all of us that we're not still 10 years old and can scamper over the side of a boat, if need be. Be safe! It was also good to be reminded of Bob. 😊

You are correct Pam. What was "nothing" at thirty surely isn't at twice that. I suspect men feel that without the brawn of youth that they are somehow less. As a woman, I am more inclined to make adjustments.

My friend in Key West lost a friend last month. The fellow left shore in his dinghy and ... well, no one knows. It's a heartbreak for the family, and friends too. I wonder IF... all those if only thoughts! Thus I hopped up on my soapbox and wrote about it.

Bob's situation was bad due to the cold water. Still, hauling a wet body onto a boat is hard. My swim platform is close to the water yet I still invested in a ladder. Fortunately ladders can often be found inexpensively at marine swap meets and nautical exchanges.

Additionally I have seen instructions for marlinspike ladders. Frankly though I am not certain they will work real well as the steps would most likely end up under the boat versus hanging straight down. We had a stainless steel welded ladder on our 40'er however that had to be deployed from inside the boat thus was useless for the unexpected baptisms. Back then I could hoist myself into my dinghy and then the boat. I was younger then!!!

Thanks so much for your comment Pam. Life is great afloat.