Which type of ladder is known for its rigidity and is typically used on the side of a ship?

The accommodation ladder is designed specifically for boarding and disembarking from a vessel and is recognized for its rigidity and stability when positioned alongside a ship. Typically secured to the ship’s side, this type of ladder allows crew members and passengers to safely access the vessel from a dock or pier, particularly when the ship is at a mooring.

The design incorporates wide steps and railings, providing safety and ease of movement, which is especially important considering the often challenging conditions at sea, including swell and wave action. The accommodation ladder is generally constructed from robust materials, ensuring that it can support individuals while providing reliable access to the ship.

In contrast, a pilot's ladder is a flexible rope ladder used primarily by pilots to board or disembark vessels. The sea ladder, often employed during recovery operations, is usually lighter and less rigid than an accommodation ladder. Lastly, the lifeboat ladder is designed to enable access to lifeboats, focusing on emergency situations rather than a regular boarding process, making it less appropriate in this context.