Abstract: A self-propelled watercraft referred to herein as vessel (10), such as, though not limited to, a kayak or the like. At least two ridges (34) and (36) are provided in the hull bottom (17) in spaced relation from one another. Likewise, at least two ridges (44) and (46), in spaced relation from one another, are provided in seat bottom (30). In one embodiment, the distance (60) between ridges (34) and (36) is greater than the distance (65) between ridges (44) and (46) such that ridges (44) and (46) are captured by ridges (34) and (36) thus preventing undesired lateral movement of the seat (25) within the interior volume (50) of the hull (15). The seat (25) is positioned lower in the hull than with a traditional seat, thus lowering the center of gravity for the vessel (10) when an occupant is seated, making the vessel (10) more stable in the water.

Abstract: A rudder assembly for self-propelled water craft, and particularly for a touring kayak. A rudder member is positioned within a notch of the rear of the keel of the craft, the exterior contour of this rudder member is made to augment the contour of the rest of the kayak hull to minimize changing the pattern of water flow around the craft. The rudder member is moved using an upstanding shaft attached to a disk within a recess in the rear of the craft, this disk being provided with starboard and port cables that extend to the cockpit of the craft. Axial movement of the cables is achieved using left and right foot pedals attached to slides within fixed channels. Provision is made for the adjustment of length of the cables, and for releasably locking one or both against axial movement.

Abstract: A foot rest (10) for supporting the feet of a boater in a boat such as a canoe or kayak. The foot rest (10) is movable along the length of the boat such that boaters having longer or shorter legs than others may be accommodated while requiring only one adjustment. The foot rest (10) includes a mounting rail (12), a foot support block (14), and a retainer rail (16). The mounting rail (12) is a linear member and is disposed along the longitudinal axis of the boat in front of a seat. The mounting rail (12) may be formed separately from and secured to the boat. The mounting rail (12) defines a plurality of indexing receptors (24) opening on the top side thereof for receiving cooperating indexing members (30) carried by the foot support block (14). The foot support block (14) includes a pair of foot engagement pads (26) carried at either end of a bridge (28). The indexing members (30) are configured to be closely received by and cooperate with the indexing receptors (24) defined by the mounting rail (12).