Gangway

Category: maritime

The physical ramp or staircase used to provide access between the ship’s deck and the pier/dock.

The gangway is the bridge to the land. It is the single point of entry for embarking/disembarking and is strictly monitored by security to ensure that only authorized persons (passengers, crew, and port officials) enter the secure ship zone.

Common Examples

• We waited for the port authorities to lower the gangway before we could leave the ship to start our shore excursion.
• A secure gangway badge check is required every time a passenger re-boards the ship after a day exploring a port of call.