Abstract: The disclosure describes system for mounting a transducer to a surface of a vessel, and also a method of mounting a transducer to a surface of a vessel. inventive system includes a base having walls that bound an interior void. Flanges extend over the interior void and define a channel, and a slide bracket having a rod passing therethrough such that the slide bracket slides within the channel. The method includes the steps of providing a base with walls and flanges, and mounting a slide bracket to a channel formed within the base.

Abstract: A system includes a catamaran configured for use in a body of water and having twin hulls, the catamaran comprising an opening between the twin hulls, the opening having a size and shape substantially the same as a payload module. The system also includes the payload module removably coupled to the catamaran in the opening between the twin hulls. The system further includes a common interface coupled to the payload module and the catamaran, the common interface configured to exchange utilities between the payload module and the catamaran.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved height adjustable tower with integrated cargo rack apparatus for wakeboard boats. The inventive apparatus enables the adjustability of the height of the cargo rack/bimini which is accomplished by lowering or raising the lower tower legs with an actuator after releasing a locking mechanism. The apparatus also includes a displacement mechanism which allows the cargo rack to be simultaneously translated and rotated. The benefit to the user is the ability to control the amount of shade/sun for the people in the general cockpit area. It also allows a user to achieve a higher walk-through height for ease of maneuvering in the boat and provides easy access to items stored on top of the cargo rack.

Abstract: A watercraft includes a watercraft body, a watercraft propulsion device, a water protective case, a communication device, and a display device. The watercraft propulsion device propels the watercraft body. The water protective case is arranged on the watercraft body. The communication device communicates with a mobile terminal arranged inside the water protective case. The display device displays content of the mobile terminal based on data received from the mobile terminal through the communication device.

Abstract: An under deck mid cabin entry system for a mono hull boat including an entry console and exposed top and front surfaces. Front and top openings extend to the top edge of the front surface and collectively define a generally L shaped entryway. The entry console is disposed to the side of a center console and provides access to steps extending beneath the main deck. A top step is within the entry console proximate to the front surface and the steps curve towards a central beam of the boat and descend into the mid cabin such that a bottom step proximate to a floor of the mid cabin directs a user into a central area of the mid cabin and terminates to avoid obstructing movement in the central area.

Abstract: A wakeboard tower having a foldable tower leg having a spring loaded latch assembly mounted to the first section of the leg and a lock pin mounted to the second section of the leg, with the spring loaded latch assembly including a handle rotatably mounted to an exterior portion of the first section of the leg and having a rod including a protruding cam surface located on the rod and a spring operable to bias the cam surface in a direction away from the handle.

Abstract: A suspension system for passenger modules used with high-speed boats, the suspension system including a shock absorbing assembly, for supporting the passenger module relative to the vessel. The passenger module is attached to the vessel via an assembly of pivoting spars in which the vessel attachment locations are spaced athwart a greater distance than the passenger module attachment locations. The suspension system may include means for resisting relative lateral movement (e.g. a panhard rod or a Watt's linkage) and for attenuating motion associated with pitch and roll.

Abstract: A swim platform for mounting onto the stern of a boat. Generally, the swim platform includes an upper platform, a lower platform, and a central support member for interconnecting the platforms and for mounting the swim platform to the boat. The platforms are sized and configured such that one or more persons could comfortably stand or sit on them. A forward portion of the lower platform is disposed proximate a rearward portion of the upper platform. Also, the lower platform is spaced vertically below the top platform and is ideally positioned at or slightly above the surface of the water. In operation, as the boat accelerates, the lower platform tilts towards the water as the bow tilts upwards. As the lower platform contacts the water, an upward force is exerted onto the lower platform, which forces the bow downwards and simultaneously forces the stern up and out of the water.

Abstract: A rack for holding water sports equipment includes a substantially upright surface, an arm, a pedal, and a linkage between the pedal and the arm. The arm is configured to hold a piece of water sports equipment between the arm and the substantially upright surface. The arm is movable away from the substantially upright surface, against a force biasing the arm toward the substantially upright surface, to allow the piece of water sports equipment to be inserted or removed from between the arm and the substantially upright surface. The pedal is positioned and configured to be moved from a closed position to an open position by a force applied by a human foot and to return to the closed position when that force is removed. The pedal is directly or indirectly connected to the arm in order to move the arm away from the substantially upright surface when the pedal is moved from the closed position to the open position.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a pleasure boat and particularly but not exclusively to a pedal boat. According to the invention, in order to make sea excursions with said pleasure boat more attractive, the boat comprises a jetted tub on board, preferably fed with seawater drawn directly from the surrounding environment.

Abstract: A boat tower and methods for making in which the tower is made of one or more composite members, each including a structural member and molded decorative members attached to opposite sides of the structural member, resulting in a tower system that requires substantially less finishing of the surfaces of the structural members as compared to conventional boat towers.

Abstract: A device for righting a boat or other water vessel following a capsize. The device has an inflatable body which can be stowed in a collapsed state when uninflated. Compressed gas inflates the body following a capsize. The inflatable body has a flexible skin which forms at least first and second inflatable chambers. A valve arrangement causes the chambers to be inflated in a predetermined sequence. The first chamber securely mounts the valve upon the vessel. The second chamber is coupled to the first, supported by the first chamber when the device is deployed. Due to its buoyancy when submerged, the second chamber applies a righting moment to the vessel. The first chamber transmits this moment to the vessel. The staged inflation of the body alleviates its tendency to “pop up” to the surface before it is adequately inflated.

Abstract: A boat hull configured to create a desired wake shape through a combination of two distinct hull types that interact with the water flow at specified moments. Controlled shaping of the wake shape is achieved through redirection of water flowing across the transom of the main hull, onto a secondary transom of a secondary “diffuser” suction hull that creates a negative pressure that sucks the aft portion of the boat hull into the water, thereby immersing the secondary transom into the water where it can effectively interact with the water and “carve” the desired wake shape desirable for wake surfing.

Abstract: A boat capture system for slowing and/or stopping a maritime vessel is provided. The system comprises an inflatable barrier, the barrier being movable and deformable upon impact whereby to slow or arrest movement of a vessel by increasing drag thereon. The barrier may further include at least one entanglement means.

Abstract: A boat including a frame and a diving board mounted to the frame. The diving board includes a base and a board coupled to the base at a pivot location. The board extends from the pivot location to a distal end. An axial spring is interconnected between the base and the board for cancelling out forces which are imparted by a user jumping on the board at the distal end.

Abstract: The invention is a fm for surfboards with a variable stiffness function. This is accomplished by means of a central disc that can be rotated to give different degrees of mechanical support to the fin when rotated to different angles, thus providing variable flexibility.

Abstract: The embodiments of the subject invention pertain to a workstation for attachment to a trolling motor. The workstation comprises a cowl for covering the head of a trolling motor and a shaft collar for operable attachment of the cowl to a trolling motor shaft. The workstation can remain in place on a trolling motor even when stored on the deck of a boat. Various accessories can also be attached to the cowl.

Abstract: A storage system for a boat includes one or more storage compartments situated in a bow of a boat. An air flow path includes an air inlet opening, the storage compartment, and an air outlet opening. A fan is situated to move air along the air flow path. The fan may be positioned proximate one of the air inlet and the air outlet, for example.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved cargo rack apparatus for wakeboard boats positioned above the boat tower.

Abstract: A method for preventive maintenance of a boat hull to restore the integrity of a fiberglass boat hull and prevent new water infiltration damage to a boat hull. The wet area repair guidelines using a surface moisture meter. Any balsa cored area reading 15% or above is considered a wet area. Any wood cored area reading 20% or above is considered a wet area. The preventive maintenance steps involve removing all through-hull fittings or hardware. Wet core areas are then dried out using heat lamps, lights or heaters, hot-vac systems, or octopus vacuum with grid system. If necessary, any area not drying out is de-cored and repaired accordingly. After repairs are finished, all through-hull fillings or hardware is reinstalled using new sealant.

Abstract: A pontoon boat including at least two pontoons and a deck supported on the pontoons. A wall assembly is anchored to the deck and extends generally upwardly therefrom to present an interior space for accommodating passengers. The wall assembly is composed of a plurality of wall segments, each including an open framework of extruded hollow beam members with an open area between the beam members. Each wall segment also includes at least one panel covering at least a portion of the open area, and the panel is secured by an adhesive along at least three of its edge regions to the beam members.

Abstract: A bracket invention is mounted to the rear area of a personal watercraft or PWC, for the purpose of providing a method and means of attaching items such as but not limited too; rod holders, sonar, lights, cooler accessories, beverage holder, fuel containers, wiring, gun case, camping supplies, fishing/hunting accessories, and water sports equipment. The bracket invention is formed in such a way that these items can be firmly attached and/or located to the PWC, extending and adding to its useful functionality. The bracket is designed to be easily attached and removed from the PWC using existing holes and location points. The bracket invention allows for easy tie off when mooring at dock, a integral mounting point for a drag bucket used to modify the PWC's speed, and/or a lighting system extending the useful period of time that a rider can operate the PWC safely and legally.

Abstract: The invention comprises a segmented platform (1) for watercraft which, which serves as a stair lift, swimplatform or gangway and can be lowered by an active or passive cylinder (4) and a parallelogram (3). The platform (1) consists of plates (2) and optional lateral lifting bodies (8), as well as of a locker (11,12) whereby the whole unit can be tilted up by the bearing (6) attached to the side plates (7) and in addition a down stroke (H1,H2,H3) is created by a second parallelogram (28) or pivot mean (29), therefor the watercraft takes up less space when not in use. The plates (2) can have a cover (21) in the form of a strap (18) and when lifting the plates (2) a higher safety for people is made possible.

Abstract: A variety of multi-use, configurable watercraft is disclosed. A first type of watercraft used in a first water-based activity may be used as a component in a second type of watercraft used in a second water-based activity. For example, a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) may be used for paddle boarding, and then converted into a kayak, sailboat, catamaran, motorboat, or other type of vessel by adding one or more components to the SUP. In one embodiment, two paddleboards are used to construct a variety of multi-hull watercraft.

Abstract: One of more safety catches attachable to water vessels for preventing rollback during launch and recovery operations. Each safety catch includes a pivotally attached catch arm for mating with a notched groove in an inclined surface to prevent the rollback.

Abstract: An arch shaped structural member suitable for use as a wakeboard tower including a pair of legs and a crosspiece supported by the legs, both of the legs and the crosspiece being a coreless cast structural member characterized as a cast structural member and devoid of a hollow interior enclosed by solid portions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for practicing towed boardsports while avoiding falls and saving time in learning, teaching, and progressing. The device consists of a rigid structure (2, 9) connected to a towing vehicle and provided with a means (3, 4) for suspending a user (5) such that the latter no longer falls. The means for suspending a user includes a rope attached to the top of the structure, at the end of which a harness for suspending the user (5) is attached. The user (5) is suspended under the device. Thus suspended, the user (5) no longer falls. The device of the invention is particularly suitable for boardsports towed by motor boats.

Abstract: Improvements in a trickle charging system for a boat are presented. The anchor charger is a solar panel that harnesses sunlight to trickle charging a boat through the anchor light connection of a boat. The anchor charger helps to ensure that the battery is fully charged prior to boating & also provide some charging action while out on the water. This helps to ensure that proper battery maintenance is provided on a consistent basis. The anchor charger connect to a standard 2 pin female anchor light connection which is installed on primarily all recreational boats that normally powers an anchor light that is required on small vessels while they are at anchor. The solar collector is mounted on a pole having an adjustable swivel mount to allow the boater to position the solar collector to be adjusted for angle and spin to collect optimal sun exposure.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting an accessory to a personal watercraft includes an accessory mounting assembly and a cooperating bracket.

Abstract: Foldable or collapsible watercraft fins are described. Preferred examples of such fins are foldable surfboard, paddleboard, and kayak fins, one or more of which can be attached to a surfboard, paddleboard, or kayak.

Abstract: A water jet propulsion boat has a water jet propulsion device in a body, and is propelled by the water jet propulsion device. An electric unit having a waterproof structure and being separate from the body can be removably disposed in a storage section without using any tools. The storage section is defined by a recess provided in the body and being open upward.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a security barrier for preventing trespass onto a water vessel. The security barrier includes one or more modular frame members, a strand of razor wire attached to the frame member and a suspension fastener for removably suspending the security barrier from a mounting surface of a water vessel.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the improved secondary navigation station of the invention comprises a horizontal surface which is suspended above the watercraft by a structural system usually comprised of aluminum tubing or equivalent, which horizontal surface may further comprise a navigation station, a seat structure, and a horizontally sliding cover, which, when it is closed position, operates in concert with said horizontal surface to create a solid weatherproof surface, but when open, allows the user or operator of the watercraft to mount a series of steps such that the user or operator of the watercraft is able to navigate the craft from an elevated position from a standing, leaning, or sitting position. The invention allows for an elevated navigation station and elevated positioning for sighting use for fishing and navigation while maintaining a low center of gravity of the watercraft.

Abstract: An attachment bracket plate that is designed to accept a wide variety of different boating devices is shown. The attachment bracket plate is designed to attach to the back of the boat. In one instance, the attachment bracket plate is designed to attach to the transom of the boat and in another instance it is designed to attach to the motor (such as an outboard motor) on the boat. The attachment bracket plate can accommodate many boating devices such as any one or more of a ski tow bar, a boat canopy, a flag pole, fishing poles/lines, a fly bridge, a grill and/or cooler holder, gill net guides, trawl net guides, swimming platform, a ladder, downrigger holder, search light holder, underwater light holder, sonar, an underwater camera, a retractable boat cover, an outboard motor cover, a culling box or any other boating device that uses a rigid rod-like structure.

Abstract: A net holster holds fishing nets outside a boat and out of the way of anglers inside the boat. The net holster of the present invention has over 100 adjustable positions to keep the net out of the way. The net holster can keep a net in place outside the boat of speeds of at least 30 miles per hour. The net holster of the present invention is designed to hold most nets. A universal clamp and a tie down clamp enable the net holster to fasten to a variety of marine vessels with very little effort.

Abstract: A wake tower for a powerboat for use in wakeboarding or other water sports is described. The wake tower can include base members attached to the powerboat and a U-shaped bar extending generally upwardly from the base members. The side bars can be tapered inward and can also be angled toward the bow of the powerboat. Support members can be positioned along the side bars to provide increased structural support to increase the maximum load of the wake tower and to increase the rigidity of the wake tower resulting in less shaking during use. A tow cross bar having a tow rope connector can be suspended generally between the side bars of the wake tower. The wake tower can be transitioned between an upright position and a lowered position.

Abstract: A boat including at least two wall segments extending generally upwardly from a deck to define an interior space. The wall segments are spaced from one another to define a passage for allowing passengers to enter and exit the interior space. A gate is secured to one of the wall segments for controlling access to the interior space. A latch assembly including base and sliding members is coupled to an end of one of the wall segments. The sliding member is movable between a latched position for trapping a portion of the gate and an unlatched position for releasing the gate. At least one glide plate of a low-friction material is disposed between the base and sliding members. Additionally, when the sliding member is in the unlatched position, the base member presents a strike surface for receiving contact from the gate to protect the wall segment.

Abstract: A marine vessel capable of being equipped and reequipped for use in marine support tasks is disclosed. The marine vessel comprises a hull having a fore bow, an aft stern, and port and starboard sides, and a wheelhouse disposed between the bow and stern and extending above the hull. A substantially flat platform extends between the wheelhouse and the stern and between the port and starboard sides. At least one modular mission pod is provided having a lower surface adapted to be releasably secured to the platform. The modular mission pod carries equipment suitable to equip the marine vessel to perform at least one marine support task.

Abstract: A maneuverable, rigid-hulled, water vessel having a hot tub recessed into or otherwise installed into a rigid boat hull. The vessel, which takes the form of a “hot tub boat,” can float on a body of water, be maneuverable while being propelled on the water, may be towed on the water, and may be moored at a dock. Since the vessel is a hot tub within a rigid boat hull, the vessel may be propelled through water with an inboard or outboard motor. In one embodiment, the vessel may be piloted while the pilot relaxes in the hot tub or while lounging on a deck of the hot tub boat. The deck of the hot tub boat may have a reverse camber to help direct heated water back into the hot tub. A temperature of the water in the hot tub may be maintained by onboard water heating and circulation systems such that the hot tub boat may be taken out on the water for several hours or more.

Abstract: A fiberglass pontoon boat, having raised and integrated fiberglass side rails, a flat floor, and a side entry level with the flat floor. Integrated seats are molded in fiberglass. The hull and deck join together by flexing the hull to compensate for opposing draft angles of the hull and deck at the side entry. The deck has a floor and at least one other interior component, and terminates in a deck trim flange. The hull has at least two hollow pontoons and at least two side rails that extend from an outer edge of the pontoons, and the hull terminates in a hull trim flange. When assembled, the hull trim flange operatively engages beneath the deck trim flange to form a unified pontoon boat having a space between the deck and hull and wherein the side rails are integrated as structural parts of the interior component.

Abstract: Marine lift apparatus for raising and lowering vessels, platforms, and cargo are disclosed. A lift apparatus comprises a base and at least one assembly. The assembly further comprises a shuttle configured for movement between first and second positions, a link arm connected to the shuttle, and a control link attached to the link arm, all configured to move the link arm between first and second positions. In some aspects, marine lift apparatus exhibit pantograph-like movement, facilitating the level raising, lowering, and storing vessels, platforms, and cargo. Lift apparatus mounted on to multi-hull vessel, such as catamarans, configured for lifting a combination swim and dinghy platform are also disclosed.

Abstract: A latching mechanism for use in securing a boat that is afloat, includes a main body having a channel for accepting a line that will hold the boat. A latching member is pivotally secured within the main body and is movable between a position that closes off the channel and movable to a position which opens the channel, the latching member being pivotable about a pivot point on the main body. A spring force holds the latching member in a closed position and a cable attached to the latching member at a location on an opposite side of the pivot point pivots the latching member to an open position.

Abstract: A deep-drawn, marine hull having a sandwich structure and watercraft utilizing same are provided. The hull includes an outer skin having a waterproof outer surface, an inner skin having a compartment-defining outer surface and a shock absorbing, cellular core positioned between the skins. The skins are bonded to the core by press molding. The cellular core has a 2-D array of cells, each of the cells having an axis substantially perpendicular to the outer surfaces. Thickness of side walls of the hull is substantially uniform to maximize stiffness of the hull. The cells absorb energy of an impact at the outer surface of the outer skin by deformably crushing. Air trapped within cells which are not completely crushed or punctured by the impact provide the hull with buoyancy to allow the hull to float at the surface of a body of water.

Abstract: One of more safety catches attachable to water vessels for preventing rollback during launch and recovery operations. Each safety catch includes a pivotally attached catch arm for mating with a notched groove in an inclined surface to prevent the rollback.

Abstract: A boat including a deck and at least two wall segments extending upwardly from the deck and at least partially defining an interior. The wall segments are spaced from one another by a gap or passage for providing passengers with access into an out of the interior. A gate including a hinge assembly is attached to the end of one of the wall segments at the gap for opening and closing to control access through the gap. The hinge assembly includes an outer member attached to the wall segment, an inner member attached to the remainder of the gate and a glide sleeve disposed between the inner and outer members. The glide sleeve is of a low-friction material for providing a low-friction contact surface between the inner and outer members.

Abstract: A method of constructing a marine vessel. The method includes structurally interlaminating a first plurality of components to form a first element of a marine vessel, structurally interlaminating a second plurality of components to form a second element of the marine vessel, and structurally interlaminating at least a first portion of the first element with at least a first portion of the second element to form a first combined element of the marine vessel. Also, a marine vessel. The marine vessel includes a first element including a first plurality of structurally interlaminated components, and a second element including a second plurality of structurally interlaminated components, wherein at least a first portion of the second element is structurally interlaminated with at least a first portion of the first element.

Abstract: A cargo rack apparatus for removable attachment removably attachment to the vertical supports of a boat tower. The boat tower including at least one port vertical support and at least one starboard vertical support, each vertical support including an upper end and a lower end, the apparatus including a cargo rack member providing storage. The boat tower also including a plurality of connectors releasably suspending cargo rack member within the vertical supports of the boat tower, wherein the cargo rack member is removably and pivotally attached to each port and starboard vertical supports at a location between the upper and lower ends thereof, and wherein the cargo rack member can tilt down within the said vertical supports of the boat tower for access to stored equipment.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mixing system for inerting a gas volume. A first exhaust gas that is provided by a fuel cell, and a second exhaust gas that is provided by a hydrogen reformer, can be mixed to form an inert gas mixture. The mixture can be fed into the gas volume for inerting.

Abstract: A watercraft utility harness having a hanging piece and a utility pocket attached to the hanging piece. Separators may be disposed in the utility pocket to divide the utility pocket into sub-pockets that may house necessary items. There are attachment straps and flaps on the back of the hanging piece, allowing the watercraft utility harness to be hung on watercraft guardrail cords. There are front straps on the front side of the utility harness, preventing the items stored in the utility pocket from falling out. The utility harness is particularly suitable to store fuel containers and provide backup fuel supply for the watercraft. The utility pockets and sub-pockets may be sized specifically for this purpose.

Abstract: A watercraft has a hull and a deck disposed above the hull. A helm assembly disposed above the deck has a steering column and a handlebar. A pedestal is disposed on the deck at least in part rearwardly of the handlebar. A support structure bears the helm assembly. The support structure surrounds at least in part the steering column. The support structure has at least one rear connection portion connected to the pedestal. The support structure has at least one front connection arm connected to at least one of the deck and the hull forwardly from the at least one rear connection portion. A watercraft with a deck having at least two portions is also presented.