Abstract: A telescoping ladder assembly which is especially useful for boarding a boat from the water includes a ladder comprising a plurality of telescoping ladder sections and a securing mechanism for securing the ladder in a stowed position. The securing mechanism includes a spring member which biases the ladder and a stop against one another to prevent extension of the ladder. The ladder is preferably pivotally and slidably mounted on a frame which is configured for mounting on a platform such as the transom of a boat.