Abstract: In a ship an opening is provided in the bow for skimming an oil/water mixture off the surface of the body of the water on which the ship travels. A ramp located within the ship slopes upwardly from the bow toward the stern and conveys the mixture to a location over a collection tank. The end of the ramp closer to the stern is formed by an overflow flap pivotally connected to the fore part of the ramp. Sensing elements check various factors affecting flow into the collecting tank and control an adjusting device which pivotally positions the overflow flap relative to the remainder of the ramp.