Abstract: Apparatus for protecting the lower bow surface of a marine vessel comprising a planar flexible sheet adapted to conform to the lower bow surface, the sheet having a plurality of lines for attaching the sheet to the vessel including a first line extending from approximately the center of a forward edge of the sheet for fastening to a point disposed on the approximate longitudinal center line of the vessel and a second and third line for attaching to respective additional points on the vessel, at least two lines coupled to respective rear opposite portions of the planar sheet, and floats coupled to each of the at least two lines for exerting a rearward, upward and centering force on the planar sheet means when the sheet means is placed in the water to protect the bow surface and the vessel is moving in a forward direction. A further embodiment using a weight at the rear edge of the sheet to aid in centering of the sheet on the bow is provided.