Abstract: A surface effect-type ship has vertically depending sidewall skirts that define a shock receiving cavity. A compound keel member is pivotally mounted to the forward end of the bow and is adapted to dampen the shock of waves incident thereon. The keel member includes a skeletal structure over which is clad a resilient and deformable skin. That skin deforms due to the wave pressure so as to present a concave surface to the incident waves. This surface partially diverts those waves into horizontal and vertical components. The vertical components may be cushioned by means of an air bag suitably positioned in the cavity behind the keel member. The vertical forces are transferred to the sidewalls and to some extent are canceled since each side of the keel acts to divert waves. Off center waves are dampened by the feature of the entire keel member being pivotable about its longitudinal axis. The keel is provided with such spring loaded means in constant contact with the sidewalls.