Translation guide
A slipway is a ramp on the shore by which ships or boats can be moved to and from the water. In Japanese, the most common term is 船台 (sendai), but other words exist depending on context.
The physical inclined ramp used for moving vessels between land and water, typically at a shipyard or boat ramp.
The standard term for a slipway, especially in shipbuilding or repair contexts. Refers to the inclined structure where a ship is built or launched.
The ship was launched from the slipway.
Literally 'launching platform', used specifically for the slipway from which a new ship is launched.
The slipway is ready for launching.
Loanword from English, used in some technical or international contexts, but less common than 船台.
This shipyard has a large slipway.
Refers to a cradle or framework on a slipway that supports the ship. Sometimes used interchangeably but more specific to the supporting structure.
They repair the hull on the slipway cradle.
A simple ramp for launching small boats, often at a marina or public boat launch.
Commonly used for recreational boat ramps. Combines 'boat' and 'slope'.
We launched the kayak from the boat ramp.
Literally 'boat haul-out place', a traditional term for a slipway or ramp where boats are pulled ashore.
General term for an inclined path or ramp, sometimes used for slipways in engineering contexts.
船台 is the general term for a slipway used in shipbuilding and repair. 進水台 specifically refers to the slipway used for launching a newly built ship. In most contexts, 船台 is sufficient.
While スリップウェイ exists, it is not as widely understood as 船台. Stick to 船台 unless you are in a very international or technical setting.
The fishermen hauled their boats up at the slipway.
They use a ramp to put the boat into the sea.