Abstract: The hull of a boat includes an opening which is closed by a door attached to the hull with a hinge and capable of limited pivoting motion on the hinge with a substantially horizontal axis of the pivot. In its upright first extreme position the door comprises a part of the hull. In a second folded down extreme position the door is substantially parallel with the water surface and can act as a loading platform and also as a stabilizer against wave action in rough waters.

Abstract: A self-retracting step assembly is attached to a swimming platform provided on the rear of the hull of a boat. The self-retracting step assembly includes a ladder comprising a series of telescoping tubes which enable its extension and retraction. The step assembly including the ladder assembly are attached to the swimming platform in a position in which the ladder is capable of extending into the water wherein the watercraft or boat floats. The telescoping ladder assembly can be extended and placed from a normally horizontal position into an inclined position wherein at least the last step of the ladder reaches the water. The energy for extending the ladder is supplied by a human user. The step assembly includes a motor or mechanical means for storing the energy used for extending the ladder. The ladder assembly is locked into the extended and inclined position by an improved mechanism that is located within the assembly attached to the swimming platform.