Abstract: A motorboat is controlled by a following water skier, when he or she is solo waterskiing, without the assistance of any driver. Optionally, a driver may operate the motorboat while towing a water skier, and an observing passenger is viewing the water skier. Optionally, a driver may operate the motorboat, with or without a passenger, and not towing a water skier. Motorboat operational controls, located both at the control center of the motorboat and on the skier's tow handle include: start and stop the motor; increase or decrease of throttle settings; select cruise speeds; turn left or right; actuate horn; automatic switches to stop engine when water skier removes his or her hands from tow rope handle and/or falls. The control signals are transmitted via electronic circuit wires extending throughout the center of a tow rope assembly and beyond. Optionally, control signals are transmitted by ultra high frequencies and related signal equipment.

Abstract: An exterior stern steering device for inboard motor boats to adjust not only the directional movement, but also the trim of the boat. The steering strut is pivotally connected to a swivel mounting to allow movement of the strut in both the vertical and lateral directions. A shaft housing in the strut contains the propeller shaft which is pivotally connected to the power transmission shaft by a constant velocity joint to provide a direct drive mechanism capable of the requisite maneuverability for allowing angular offset between the propeller shaft and the transmission shaft as the boat is propelled forward.