A slipway, also known as boat ramp or launch, is a ramp on the shore by which ships or boats can be moved to and from the water. They are used for building and repairing ships and boats. They are also used for launching and retrieving small boats on trailers towed by automobiles and flying boats on their undercarriage. The nautical term ways is an... Found on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slipway
A slipway is an inclined way sloping from above to below water level, up which ships may be drawn out of the water, and down which they may be launched. Slipways on a small scale may serve the combined purpose of a slip on which comparatively small boats are constructed, and a way down which they are launched, and up which they are drawn for repair... Found on http://www.probertencyclopaedia.com/browse/RSA.HTM