Abstract: A man-overboard retrieval device comprises a rigid, tubular boom attachable at an inboard end to an anchorage on a boat and having at its other, outboard end a strap which forms a semi-rigid, self-supporting bight which can be placed around a man in the water. A draw-cord attached to a free end of the strap extends through the boom and emerges at the inboard end where it can be pulled to tighten the bight around the man before being fastened in a cleat. A hoist on the boat can be attached to a hoisting eye on the boom either at the inboard end or near the strap, as convenient, for hoisting the device and the rescued man onboard.