Abstract: A suitcase boat in accordance with the invention comprises a platform or hull for supporting a person and/or objects while the boat is floating on the water and the hull comprises a plurality of pan sections interconnected along a transverse axis normal to a longitudinal axis of the boat when the pan sections are in an extended position end to end. The pan sections are relatively foldable or pivotable about the transverse axis to a confronting position forming a hollow rectangular enclosure similar to a suitcase for carrying a plurality of detached flotation elements, seats and other components of the boat. The flotation elements are detachably securable to the pan sections in an extended position for supporting the boat on the water. The flotation elements are dimensioned for containment within the hollow enclosure when the pan sections are in the confronting position for easy carrying.

Abstract: A suitcase boat in accordance with the invention comprises a relatively flat, stiff platform for supporting a person and/or objects while the boat is on the water. The platform includes a plurality of rectangular sections hingedly interconnected along parallel axes normal to the longitudinal axis of the boat. The sections are relatively foldable at right angles along the transverse axes to form a hollow rectangular enclosure similar to the form of a rectangular suitcase. A plurality of floatation elements are provided adapted to support the platform on the water when the sections are unfolded or extended in substantially coplanar alignment. The floatation elements are dimensioned for containment within the hollow enclosure when the sections are folded into suitcase form.

Abstract: A ballast apparatus for aiding in righting a capsized boat comprises a container for holding a quantity of water as ballast and includes a support for securing the container full of water to a person outwardly of the boat for exerting a righting moment thereon. The container is formed of flexible sheet material and is changeable between an opened condition for receiving and holding a quantity of water as ballast and a relatively flat collapsed condition for stowage while not in use on the boat.