Gangplank

In progress right now is this project: a stern gangplank for a boat that will be moored stern-to, Mediterranean style. The walking surface is made from 12mm marine ply, sheathed on both sides with 6oz FG cloth and epoxy for a durable, low maintenance surface. The side beams and framing are made from sapele lumber.

Here a couple of shots showing the pieces and how they fit together. The cross-frames are mortised into the beams which have been dadoed to accept the plank:





And here are a couple more after the first coat of sealer has been put on so that you can start to see the lovely grain of the wood. You're looking at the underside here where the frames come across to stiffen and support the walking surface. Because this side will be very visible when the gangplank is hoisted up vertically, we need to be sure that the underside is pretty too.





Next step to come: The walking surface will be coated with KiwiGrip non-skid once all the varnishing has been completed.