Abstract: In order to stay the columns in an offshore vessel of the type having two parallel pontoons and an operating platform carried thereby, also with respect to forces tending to displace the pontoons longitudinally in relation to each other, the columns located in the same transverse plane are interconnected by two transverse braces arranged in cruciform close to each other, but lacking direct connection.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for converting recreational vehicles (RVs), camper bodies and trailers from land-based units to water-based units. Following conversion, the RV or camper becomes the "cabin" of a houseboat having an undercarriage which includes a pair of catamaran floatation pontoons supporting a flat deck. The undercarriage is fully supported during the loading of the RV or camper and is positioned level with the loading dock regardless of the water level in the launching body of water. The RV or camper is adjustably positioned on the undercarriage to produce a positive angle of attack in which the stern draws a deeper draft than the bow, and is then secured to the undercarriage to prevent relative movement between the RV or camper and the undercarriage.

Abstract: A swimming exercise and training apparatus capable of use by the swimmer in water at the side of a pool and allowing the swimmer to remain at a fixed distance from the side of the pool. The device preferably includes at least two flexible lines, the second end of each line is attached to an anchoring structure at the side of the pool or the like and the first end of each line is attached to a belt which is disposed above and encircles the waist of the swimmer, and attached to the belt is a plurality of pads with a plurality of straps attached to each pad for securing the position of the belt about the waist of the swimmer and for securing the position of the first end of each line.