I hear you. Weve gone to a folding side ladder that mounts on the genoa track. MUCH easier than scrambling over the transom.
http://mysticstainless.com/foldaway.htmlGot ours at the Annapolis boat show six or seven years ago.
I just checked the current prices, and yikes! We paid around $600
(boat show price) back then for the three-section version, and got the
teak step kit thrown in for free.
Current price for the three-section ladder is over $900!
Still, might be cheaper than having the stern pulpit modified, unless you're
really good with a TIG welder.
I would definitely recommend the three-step version, and the teak
steps. The bare round rungs are too painful on bare feet, and the
two-section version would not be long enough to be able to get on
the first step while in the water.