Boat platform ladder

Claim 1

A boat ladder to be affixed to the stern of a recreational water-borne vessel, comprising: a platform section having a pair of parallel extension arms projecting from a first end; a hinge mechanism carried at the end of each extension arm and adapted for attachment to the stern of a vessel, the hinge mechanism providing the platform section with pivotal movement between a raised position wherein the platform surface is substantially, vertically disposed and a lowered position wherein the platform surface is substantially, horizontally disposed; a ladder section carried at an opposing, second end of the platform and having a plurality of steps spaced along a pair of parallel side members having arcuate ends; a rotational coupling mechanism connecting the ladder section to the platform section and providing rotational movement of the ladder relative to the platform so that when the platform is in its lowered position, the ladder assumes a position perpendicular to the platform, and when the platform is in its raised position, the ladder assumes a position parallel to the platform; a locking mechanism carried by each arcuate end of the ladder side members, the locking mechanisms coupling the ends of the ladder to the platform to fix the ladder in its perpendicular position; one or more platform support means coupled between a vessel and the platform for supporting the platform in its lowered position; and control means attached to the platform for raising and lowering of the platform.