Staircase lifehack 1: Space-saving staircase in winter storage
Thinking about winter now: When the boat is on land, it can sometimes be a breakneck affair to climb up or down the ladder with tools, equipment or bulky bunk cushions. To minimise this constant source of danger, we have purchased a so-called space-saving staircase. The steps are quite steep, but the alternating recesses on the left and right make them easy to climb, you just have to start with the right foot. However, you soon get used to this and you can do it without looking. This staircase combines the convenience of a staircase with the small space requirement of a ladder. After all, there is not enough space between the boats or the hall wall and the boat for a proper staircase. In addition, it must also be possible to store it in the loft or cellar in summer. There are many different types of space-saving staircases; we chose one with a handrail (not in the picture). With a little patience, we found one for 50 euros on a classified ad portal. New ones are more likely to be around 200 euros. Compared to the price of a high-quality ladder, this is a fair offer and a good investment in safe access when working on a boat.
Inger Senning, Hamburg
Staircase lifehack 2:Fender stairs for emergencies
As charterers, we usually fly on sailing holidays. Although we would like to have a proper rescue ladder with us, we can't take one with us due to our limited flight luggage. That's why we use on-board equipment: we tie four fenders together to create a ladder rung by rung. The topmost fender is attached to two railing supports with two additional lines. Now you can hang the fenders on the side of the boat and climb up.
Reiner Seiferling, Ubstadt-Weiher
Staircase lifehack 3:Using the space under the companionway stairs correctly
We have fitted drawers under the steps of the companionway so that small items such as adapters for the water hose and winch cranks can be easily stowed away and the space utilised. A suitable or home-made drawer can be fitted under each step using standard L-profiles parallel to the steps and held in the guide. The drawers should not open independently in rough seas or when the companionway is removed and must be secured with latches to prevent unintentional opening.
Mathias Keim, Berlin
Staircase lifehack 4:Swimming ladder and transport trolley in one
We use a bathing ladder attached amidships. The steps were flush with the hull, which is a hindrance when climbing up, as you can only get a grip with the tips of your feet. We screwed on two plastic wheels from the DIY store as spacers. The lower third of the ladder can be folded down for stowing, so we came up with the idea of locking it at a 90-degree angle. Two corresponding stainless steel plates, which can be screwed to the ladder's uprights if required, now transform the bathing aid into a hand truck. The construction is stable enough to transport a 25-litre diesel canister.
Robert Siebel-Heymann, Meerbusch
Do you have any advice for other sailors?
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