Aluminium access gangway
Custom-designed aluminium gangways for ports and marine infrastructure
Aluminium access gangways are a key component of marinas, fishing ports and marine facilities. Designed to provide safe and ergonomic access to pontoons, quays and boarding areas, they are built to withstand the specific conditions of the marine environment, including corrosion, changing weather conditions, fluctuating water levels and varying levels of user traffic.
The Benefits of an Aluminium Port Access Gangway
- Custom-designed aluminium gangways: Each aluminium access gangway is custom-designed by our engineering team, based on the technical, functional and regulatory requirements of each site, to ensure seamless integration into the port infrastructure.
- Suitable for both new builds and port renovation developments: aluminium gangways help improve the functionality, safety and service life of marine infrastructure in France and internationally.
- In France and internationally: Our aluminium gangways can be installed throughout France and internationally, with each project adapted to local standards and specific operating conditions.
- Integration of tailored features: handrails, guardrails, non-slip decking and secure gates, ensuring safe, comfortable use for both professionals and leisure boaters.
Why
choose METALU
The Performance of 6005A T6 Aluminium
Our access gangways are made from 6005A T6 marine-grade aluminium, a material recognized for its high corrosion resistance. The natural formation of a protective layer of aluminium oxide provides excellent long-term performance, even in marine environments and extreme weather conditions. Its low maintenance requirements and full recyclability support a more sustainable approach to port infrastructure.
An In-house Engineering Team and Custom Design
Our in-house engineering team designs and manufactures aluminium footbridges tailored to each customer’s requirements and order specifications.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance
The design of an aluminium footbridge is underpinned by strict adherence to current standards. Structures are sized in accordance with the Eurocodes to ensure optimum resistance to static and dynamic loads. All METALU systems comply with CE EN 1090 requirements, providing owners with a high level of safety and reliability.
Customer Relationships at the Heart of Every Project
METALU is known for its responsiveness and strong focus on customer service. We work closely with our customers throughout their project, remaining available from the initial discussions through to completion and beyond. Because a relationship built on trust is essential to a successful project.
A Wide Range of Decking Options
Wood or Composite
GRP Grating
Recycled plastic
Galvanised steel
The Mooring Gangway: A Safe Access and Mooring Solution
The naturally corrosion-resistant aluminium mooring gangway provides mooring personnel with quick and safe access to work areas, even in challenging conditions such as swell, changing water levels and adverse weather. It is designed for:
- Commercial ports
- Marinas
- Shipyards and port infrastructure operators
The aluminium mooring gangway ensures operator safety, long-term infrastructure performance and reduced maintenance costs, while complying with the technical standards applicable to the port sector. Made from 6005A T6 marine-grade aluminium, it provides high corrosion resistance.
The Ship-to-Shore Gangway: Safe Access to Vessels
The aluminium ship-to-shore gangway provides safe access between the vessel and the quay. It is designed for shipowners, shipyards and port terminals for handling operations and personnel transfers. Our vessel gangways can be custom-designed to suit different site configurations, with an operating angle of up to 45° to accommodate varying quay heights. 6005A T6 marine-grade aluminium and compliant with ISO 7061, they provide high corrosion resistance. The material is also lightweight – a considerable advantage – allowing structures to be designed for easy handling and transport.
- Angle <25 degrees: flat non-slip deck with cleats (aluminium/GRP)
- Angle >25 degrees: sinusoidal deck
- Vessel side: custom hooks for secure positioning
-
Quay side: PA6 wheels or rollers
- Folding stanchions for safety netting – tool-free for storage
- Lifting rings
Frequently Asked Questions About Port Access Gangways
Why choose an aluminium access gangway for a port?
Aluminium is the material of choice for port infrastructure. Lightweight, robust and naturally corrosion-resistant, it offers excellent long-term performance even in harsh marine environments. An aluminium port access gangway requires minimal maintenance and delivers reliable performance over many years.
What types of ports can be equipped with a port access gangway?
Aluminium access gangways can be adapted to a wide range of configurations: marinas, fishing ports, commercial ports, shipyards, marine leisure facilities and inland-waterway infrastructure. Each project is custom-designed to meet the operating requirements and specific characteristics of the site.
Can an access gangway be installed as part of a port renovation project?
Yes. Aluminium access gangways are particularly well suited to the renovation or modernization of port infrastructure. They can improve safety, accessibility and user comfort while minimizing the need for modifications to existing structures.
How does an access gangway accommodate changes in water level?
Port gangways are designed to accommodate floating pontoon movements and variations in water level due to tides, high waters and other conditions. Their dimensions and secure attachment systems ensure safe and comfortable access at all times.
What length of gangway is needed to access a pontoon?
The required length of an access gangway depends on the height of the quay, changes in water level and the desired gradient. As every project is unique, gangways are generally custom-designed to provide comfortable and safe access to pontoons at all times.
Does METALU Operate Across France and Worldwide?
Yes. METALU works on port infrastructure projects in France and around the world. Each gangway is designed to meet local regulations and withstand the climatic conditions and operating requirements specific to each site.
Do you have a project in mind?
Our team is here to discuss and help you find the right solution for your project.