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If you’re interested in buying a gangway for the first time, you most likely have a lot of questions. One of them likely being, “What do I ask the manufacturer?” Buying a gangway can be a tall purchase, and making sure it matches your overall maritime style is more crucial than you may think. While it may seem like just a simple passageway, it’s actually how you (and your potential passengers) will access your dock whenever you sail. It’s an important part of your overall waterfront experience. Fortunately, in the over 35 years Bristol Industries of PA has spent building gangways, we have compiled some of the most popular questions among buyers, and have provided some valuable insight to assist anyone that may have these questions as well.

• How long and wide should it be?

This may sound complicated at first, but determining your gangway’s size is actually a very straightforward process. To find the required length, you simply take the total elevation of your dock by foot and multiply it by 2 ½ feet. For example, if your dock is 4 feet above the water, your equation would be 4 x 2 ½, which means your gangway will have to be 10 feet long.

In terms of determining width, this is more dependent on what you personally plan to use the dock for. If you’re using the dock to make deliveries, a large width would be the most appropriate for getting packages across safely. If you plan to use the dock only for passengers, then a small width would be more fitting

• What kind of accessories or options should I add?

Gangways come with many different accessories and optional add-ons, with purposes ranging from sensible to stylish. Some of the most famous safety accessories include handrails to give pedestrians a much more safe walk across, transition plates, which ensure gapless passage from your gangway to the surface, and toe kicks that prevent loose items from going missing. Not only do all of these make your gangway a much safer place, but they also aesthetically enhance it as well. You can read more about gangway components here.   

• What style of decking should it be?

Everyone has their own style, and thankfully they make gangways for each. If you like a glossy, modern look, the ever-popular aluminum would definitely be best for you. If you prefer a design that feels more natural and nostalgic, but still incredibly sturdy, then the famous Brazilian Ipe wood seems more up your alley. If you are someone who likes the authenticity of wood, but hates the potential rotting and splinters, the eco-friendly composite decking would be a perfect look for your gangway. 

The process of buying a gangway can no doubt be a complex and overwhelming one, and at Bristol Industries of PA, we always strive to make sure that it’s as simple as possible for our customers. If you would like to learn more, give us a call or request a quote today!