Abstract: A kayak comprises a hull with a relatively narrow cross sectional underwater width for increasing speed and efficiency of the kayak moving through water and first and second pairs of convex surfaces for providing kayak stability.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and to a device for producing a boat-type body (10) of a water sport device. According to the invention, a rotating frame (12), which is pre-formed about an access opening of the boat-like body (10), is arranged on an inner side of a negative mould. The outer shape of the boat-type body (10) is predetermined, essentially, by the innerside of the negative mould. The boat-like body (10) is produced in the inner side of the mould by means of a thermoplastic shaping method. During the shaping process, at least one part of the surface of the rotating frame (12) is in contact with the boat-like body (10) which is formed by the thermoplastic shaping method. The invention also relates to a water sport device.

Abstract: An improved kayak provides a rigid open cockpit hull with air chambers attached to the hull. The air chambers provide a generally convex shape for increased maneuverability and also provide cushioning against impact to reduce the risk of injury to the kayak pilot. The air chambers allow for an open cockpit kayak with an exterior surface having a similar shape as a conventional closed cockpit kayak, providing a similar level of maneuverability and allowing for completion of maneuvers such as rolling the kayak from an inverted position in the water.

Abstract: A water vessel includes a hull having a maximum width. The hull defines a first portion and a second portion. Each of the first and second portions has an end at which a width of the hull converges relative to the maximum width of the hull. The second portion has a first member that defines a first end and a second end. A coupling member pivotally couples the first end of the first member to the first portion of the hull. The second end of the first member forms a portion of the end of the second portion that converges relative to the maximum width of the hull. The first member is movable relative to the first portion of the hull between a closed position and an open position.

Abstract: A watercraft stabilizing system includes a float selectively movable by a user to a deployed position extending away from a hull of the watercraft. The hull and float may be configured so that in a retracted position the float does not detrimentally affect the handling and/or performance of the craft. In various embodiments, the float, in a retracted position, may be positioned in-line with the hull, or so that it otherwise follows the contours of the hull, specifically with respect to the portions of the float and hull that are below the waterline. The stabilizing system may be particularly suitable for use with kayaks and canoes.

Abstract: A plastic molded, sit-on-top kayak of unique size and shape is disclosed with various components which provide multi-purpose usage. The kayak is especially useful for multi-purposes such as sailing kayak surfing, scuba diving, paddling, touring and electric motorized usage. The kayak has attachment points integrally molded that provide for these multi-purposes. An important component of the invention includes a removable backrest that additionally provides secure waterproof storage of the operator's personal items. The backrest can be easily removed and reattached securely in place when desired. The ability to easily remove a backrest or backpack option also enables a desirable compact capability for transportation and storage by a user. Additional benefits of this feature provide for a smaller profile for packaging and commercial transportation.

Abstract: An apparatus for towing cargo behind a watercraft that includes a floating assembly for towing behind the watercraft and comprising a frame and at least one floatation device mounted on the frame. The apparatus further includes a linking assembly mounted on the floating assembly for linking the floating assembly to the watercraft. The linking assembly comprises a pair of longitudinal linking elements, with each of the linking elements having a forward end and a rear end. The rearward end of each of the linking elements is mounted on the floating assembly and extends forwardly from the floating assembly for mounting on the watercraft.

Abstract: A watercraft stabilizing paddle holder and a water craft stabilizing paddle holder kit, the kit comprising a shaft brace having a lower shaft support surface to limit downward shaft displacement and a pair of lateral shaft support surfaces to limit lateral shaft displacement, a shaft holder having a lower shaft support surface and an upper shaft support surface to limit vertical shaft displacement and a pair of lateral shaft support surfaces limit lateral shaft displacement, and a mounting stand.

Abstract: A recreational watercraft device consisting of a light hull in the shape of a sail board hull and on the bottom a strut hydrofoil assembly. The hydrofoil has a bilateral symmetric plan-form with a pivot connection at the center of the hydrofoil span. The pivot connection joins the hydrofoil to the strut. The strut has a streamline cross-section. The plane of symmetry of the strut is positioned in the plane of symmetry perpendicular to the span of the hydrofoil. In operation the rider stands on the hull and reciprocates the hydrofoil up and down via a strut having a T handle. The elements of the strut hydrofoil assembly comprise a foil, a pivot, a strut, a T handle, and extension.

Abstract: The inflatable kayak includes an inflatable peripheral structure defining at least one buoyancy chamber having elongated side sections that come together at a fore section and a aft section to form a passenger compartment. An inflatable floor cushion supports a floor of the passenger compartment. The floor cushion includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and at least one side gusset. The surface area of the top wall is less than the surface area of the bottom wall. A plurality of elongated, I-beam baffles extends between the top wall and the bottom wall. Each I-beam baffle has a midpoint, between the fore section and aft section, and an end, wherein the height of at least one I-beams baffle measured from the junction of the top wall to the junction of the bottom wall is greater at the midpoint of the baffle than at the end of the baffle.

Abstract: A kayak user braces his or her feet against footrests that project inward from the sides of the kayak. The positions of the footrests can be adjusted to accommodate users of different heights, and the footrests can be pivoted to control the position of the rudder of the kayak.

Abstract: An assembly for converting a non-sailing boat to a sailboat comprises a sailing keel adapted to be removably attached to the keel of a boat, a first and a second support frame, one or more straps connected on a first end to the sailing keel and connected on a second end to one or both of the first and second support frames, a steering support frame, and a rudder attached to the steering support frame or stern of the boat. The first and second support frames and steering support frame are adapted to extend across the boat from one side of the boat to an opposite side, and the first support frame is adapted to support a mast in an essentially vertical position. A method for converting a non-sailing boat to a sailboat utilizing this assembly is also provided.

Abstract: The Canoe-Angler is a tray style device designed for organizing fishing and other sporting equipment while occupying a canoe. The Canoe-Angler can hold a tackle box, a beverage, (2) fishing rods, and has an extra compartment for miscellaneous items. The tackle box compartment can also be used to hold binoculars, shotgun shells, etc., for other canoe-related sports and hobbies. The Canoe-Angler hangs over the canoe gunwales by adjustable arms for different canoe widths or differing widths within the canoe (front, middle, back, etc.). The Canoe-Angler consists of a molded plastic tray (with aforementioned equipment compartments), (2) aluminum frame tubes, (4) telescoping aluminum arm tubes, (4) aluminum angle gunwale clamps that are fastened to the telescoping tubes, and shock-cords holding opposing telescoping arms from inside the frame tubes.

Abstract: A kayak ballast system is comprised of a cradle member configured to be fitted within the interior of the kayak. The cradle member defines a receiving unit for securely receiving weight, thereby providing a ready means for adding weight to a kayak and increasing the center of gravity and overall stability of the vessel. The ballast system is used to increase the boats center of gravity in the inventive method. The ballast system may be positioned throughout the interior of the kayak including the forward end of the cockpit and the cargo holds.

Abstract: A lightweight, portable kayak is provided. The kayak is developed around a skeletal frame to which the kayak skin is permanently attached. The kayak skeletal frame may have one or more segments that can be compressed or folded individually. The compressed kayak can be attached or stowed in a backpack for convenient portage by an individual.

Abstract: This invention can be fitted to a variety of vessels and accommodate a variety of accessories that may require deployment or retraction such as electronic equipment, downrigger or an outboard skeg mechanism as detailed in the preferred embodiment. This invention in it's preferred embodiment is shown on, but not limited to, the stern of a kayak. It increases the efficiency of linear tracking, allows the handling characteristics of an aquatic vessel to be tuned, and reduces the amount of technical skill required to control the vessel. It can have control linkage to deploy or retract it, can be stowed separate from the vessel, is lightweight, and is easy to assemble and operate.

Abstract: A water vessel has a hull having a maximum width and defines a first portion and a second portion. Each of the first and second portions has an end at which a width of the hull converges relative to the maximum width of the hull. The second portion has a first member defining a first end and a second end. The first end is moveably coupled to the first portion of the hull. The second end is associated with the end of the second portion. The first member is movable between a closed position and an open position relative to the first portion of the hull.

Abstract: The kayak has a topside axial enclosure, which may be rendered watertight and used as a bait tank or other liquid container, and at least one additional enclosure positioned transversely to the axial enclosure, which may or may not be watertight. In the preferred embodiment, a second additional enclosure is positioned transversely to the axial enclosure on the opposite side from the first additional enclosure. The enclosures are preferably configured with the upper surfaces of their covers at a single level, so that they may be used collectively as an extended, relatively flat fishing seat. Various access and sealing means are selectively provided for the respective enclosures. For example, a removable transparent access port may be included within the cover of the axial enclosure. In some embodiments, a circulation pump is provided to discharge within the axial enclosure. Likewise, the transversely positioned enclosure(s) may be selectively removable.

Abstract: A device that mounts onto the front of a kayak to assist in righting the kayak after it rolls over. It consists of a small mast that is attached to a hinged base. An inflatable bag is attached to the top of the mast along with equipment to inflate the bag. A lanyard is attached to the inflation equipment and to the top of the mast. In a rollover, the user pulls the lanyard, which causes the bag to inflate and the mast to rotate 90 degrees. This places the mast perpendicular to the kayak with the inflated bag at the far end of the mast. The inflated bag acts like an outrigger that causes the kayak to roll back upright automatically. In this way, the kayak is turned upright with minimal problems and difficulties for the user.

Abstract: A skirt for a personal watercraft is disclosed, wherein the skirt includes a body having an edge portion configured to be removably attached to the watercraft, and a release extending from an outer portion of the skirt and extending toward and terminating at an inner portion of the skirt. Ventilation systems for a skirt for a watercraft are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention is a rigid-decked spray skirt for use with a kayak operable to fit about the cockpit rim. A rigid deck member under the flexible spray skirt rests on the cockpit rim and spans the front portion of the cockpit opening. The invention also comprises a rigid deck plate for use with a flexible kayak spray skirt. The rigid deck plate is arc-shaped and is substantially congruous with the front portion of the cockpit opening. The rigid plate member covers the front portion of the cockpit opening. In this way the rigid deck plate provides support to flexible spray skirts used with kayaks. The invention further comprises a spray skirt that is substantially rigid. Still further, in another embodiment, the front portion of the spray skirt is substantially rigid, while the remainder of the spray skirt is flexible.

Abstract: The kayak has a cargo hold with a forward hatch and a hatch cover. A forward passenger seat may be positioned atop the hatch and may, in some embodiments, selectively replace the hatch cover. Neither the forward hatch cover nor forward passenger seat intrudes substantially into the hold. An aft passenger seat may also be provided. In other embodiments, a rounded tank, which may be used as a bait tank, is positioned forward of the operator seat. Yet other embodiments include an aft hatch that slants in respect to the upper surface of the kayak. Seat pads may be provided for the operator's seat and for the tank.

Abstract: A sit-on-top kayak hull having an elevated void in the area between the normal seated position of a paddlers legs. The elevated void which is formed into the hull of the watercraft and extends there-through to a height above the normal laden waterline generally to a level of the approximate height of the gunwales forms a hole in the craft which is surrounded by walls. Various modules may be inserted into the hull void for varying needs, such as storage modules, clear modules for underwater vision, or flotation modules. The hull void additionally allows for changes in the running surface of the kayak by insertion of rudders, skegs, centerboards or other devices The void may be left open in full or part for egress of scuba hoses, anchors or other marine devices without affecting the structural integrity of the kayak, its buoyancy, or adversely affecting its performance.

Abstract: A selectively inflatable kayak of the type having at least one elongated pneumatically inflatable peripheral tube which, when inflated, defines a passenger compartment and relatively narrow bow and stern sections. A flexible cover extends between and at least partially encases the at least one elongated pneumatically inflatable tube to provide a floor for the kayak. The flexible cover or separate bow and stern covers are provided for extending between the at least one elongated pneumatically inflatable flexible tube at bow and stern sections, respectively, the flexible cover or bow and stems covers being characterized as having narrow regions extending below and further defining the bow and stern regions of the kayak. Bow and stern pillows are provided which are sized to at least partially snuggly fit within the bow and stern sections, respectively, and are provided with stiffened ribs which extend within those narrow regions when the pillows are inserted.

Abstract: An improved watercraft having a viewing system, and a kit for installing a viewing system in an existing watercraft. The watercraft includes a viewing opening through a portion of the bottom of the hull and a viewing system is attached thereto. The viewing system includes a substantially transparent viewing window that is disposed within the viewing opening, an attachment that attaches the viewing window to the bottom of the hull and a seal that creates a watertight seal between the viewing window and the bottom of the hull. The kit includes the components of the viewing system and a template for marking the hull of the watercraft.

Abstract: An improved canoe including a hull has sidewalls extending fore and aft and a gunwale on the sidewalls. The gunwale has longitudinal slot extending for a substantial portion of the entire hull. A canoe accessory has a thickened attachment portion for engagement in the slot to attach the accessory to the canoe. A method of canoeing includes inserting a thickened portion of a canoeing accessory into a slot at a canoe gunwale to retain the accessory in place and paddling the canoe on a body of water.

Abstract: A seating system for use in a watercraft is disclosed. The seating system comprises a seat pan adapted to be mounted to the watercraft, a pad coupled to the seat pan and adapted to provide a seating surface for the user, and a back rest coupled to the seat pan. The seating system further comprises a first adjustment mechanism configured to provide for and aft adjustment of the seating position, a second adjustment mechanism configured to provide adjustment of the back rest without having to exit the watercraft, and a third adjustment mechanism configured to provide adjustment of the seating surface.

Abstract: A water-tight, streamlined storage pack, removably attached to a kayak deck and accessible by a kayak operator during kayak operation. The present invention pack also provides lighting and fishing rod holders.

Abstract: One embodiment provides a personal watercraft, wherein the personal watercraft includes a cockpit configured to accommodate a user, a first item of outfitting coupled to the watercraft at least partially within the cockpit, wherein the first item of outfitting includes a first fluid-holding bladder inflatable by the user to increase the snugness of fit of the first item of outfitting on the user, a second item of outfitting coupled to the watercraft at least partially within the cockpit, wherein the second item of outfitting includes a second fluid-holding bladder inflatable by the user to increase the snugness of fit of the second item of outfitting on the user, a pump for inflating the first bladder and the second bladder, a fluid supply line connecting the first bladder and the second bladder to the pump, and a valve disposed along the fluid supply line, wherein the valve is configured to allow fluid flow from the pump to be selectively directed into at least one of the first bladder and the second bladder

Abstract: A kit for building a unique skin on frame kayak. The kit can comprise various raw, precut, and/or preformed materials that can be used to build a kayak frame. Further, various materials can be included to build a finished kayak. The kit can be incorporated as part of a course to illustrate one or more principles of the course.

Abstract: A simple, lightweight, manually-controlled device for stabilizing and increasing the performance of small, sail-assisted watercraft, containing a single moving part and comprising a curved spar or iako (1) joining a main hull and a single outrigger hull or ama, a tubular shaft (2) with a handle (7) at one end and an “L” shaped hydrofoil (5 and 6) at the other end. The tubular shaft (2) is joined to the iako (1) by two or more struts (3) that are fixed to the iako (1) at their upper ends and have machine screws (8) or sleeves (4) at their lower ends by means of which the tubular shaft (2) is permitted to rotate around its longitudinal axis and is prevented from moving horizontally in relation to the curved iako (1), thereby making the entire assembly a truss or girder that resists vertical distortion or flexion.

Abstract: A stabilizer is releasably attached to a canoe-like boat and includes two floats that are located outside the periphery of the boat. The floats are attached to bars, and lock mechanisms attach the bars to the boat. The bars are releasably attached end-to-end. Each float includes a main float portion. Each float also includes an adjustable float portion and a strap that secures the adjustable float portion either vertically above or vertically below the corresponding main float portion.

Abstract: A that receives impact energy from its environment during use is disclosed. The watercraft comprising a hull, a deck coupled to the hull, and an apparatus that provides structural support to the hull and the deck. The apparatus comprises a member disposed along an interior surface of the hull and extending along at least a portion of the longitudinal direction of the hull, and a first support coupled to the member and the deck. The apparatus is configured to return at least a portion of the energy to the environment. An apparatus to provide structural support for a watercraft having a hull and a deck and configured to receive impact energy from its environment during use is also disclosed. The apparatus comprises a member coupled to the hull and extending along at least a portion of the longitudinal direction of the hull, a front support coupled to the deck and the member, and a rear support coupled to the deck and the member.

Abstract: An inflatable kayak having a multi-position footrest spaced from the seat of the kayak is disclosed. The multi-position footrest allows the kayak to accommodate operators of various sizes. The kayak may also include front and rear recessed cargo compartments which allow a significant quantity of cargo to be carried on the kayak without significantly raising the center of gravity of the kayak and without causing the kayak to become unbalanced.

Abstract: An improved thermoplastic kayak or canoe including a thermoplastic hull having an opening and a coaming integral with the hull and bordering the opening and including an outer and inner walls, the inner wall spaced apart from the outer wall, and at least one support bridge extending between the inner wall to the outer wall of the coaming.

Abstract: The invention provides a watercraft for transporting one or more human users in any of a sitting, standing, riding, kneeling or recumbent positions. The watercraft includes (a) a first hull comprising a cavity extending from the top of the hull downwards substantially to the bottom of said hull, said cavity being sufficiently wide to accommodate a user's leg and foot when the user is in a sitting, standing, riding, or kneeling position, (b) a second hull comprising a cavity extending from the top of the hull downwards substantially to the bottom of said hull, said cavity being sufficiently wide to accommodate a user's leg and foot when the user is in a sitting, standing, riding, or kneeling position, and (c) a connector rigidly attached to each of the first and second hulls, wherein a user of the watercraft can sit, ride, kneel, or stand with one foot and/or leg in the cavity of each hull.

Abstract: In a narrow keeled boat with adjustable walls (10 & 11) and floatation devices 12 & 13) that expand outward to allow for more room in the cockpit and increased stability when needed.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inflatable kayak having a first set of inflatable tubes defining a bottom portion for contracting a body of water. The bottom portion of the present invention is attached to one or more side walls defining the sides of the kayak. The kayak of the present invention is equipped with a first area sized to receive a surfboard and a zipper or other sealing system to secure the surfboard within the first area. The surfboard providing additional rigidity and stability to the kayak of the present invention.

Abstract: A self-propelled personal watercraft is disclosed, wherein the personal watercraft includes a body including a hull and a deck substantially covering the hull, wherein the body includes a bow portion and a stern portion. The personal watercraft also includes a deck modification module removably attached to the deck, wherein the deck modification module is configured to be selectively removable to change a performance characteristic of the deck when the deck is submerged in water.

Abstract: Canoes are relatively unstable in as much as they tip over easily. Because of this many side runners have been invented to prevent canoes from tipping over so easily. One problem with all available canoe runners is that they are cumbersome and difficult to transport. On a long journey, more than ever, safety and even survival mandate use of a canoe runner. The problem with all available canoe runners is that they are not sufficiently portable to carry within a canoe for portages which frequently continue for miles.

Abstract: A kayak and canoe refloating device includes a flotation mat and at least two tethers configured for flexible attachment on one end to the flotation mat and on the other end to the side of the kayak and canoe. The flotation mat has a plurality of baffles and a length, width and depth when inflated sufficient to support a major portion of a water-filled kayak or a canoe when rolled into an upside down position onto the flotation mat for draining the kayak or canoe.

Abstract: A kayak cooler has an enclosure with a rigid outside surface and a contoured bottom. The kayak cooler has a plurality of securing tabs disposed about the rigid outside surface of the enclosure. The enclosure has a top with an access opening and the contoured bottom has a shape approximating the contour of a foredeck of a kayak.

Abstract: A watercraft (11) comprising a shell having an upper skin (13) adapted to support at least one person, a lower skin (15) defining a hull (23) for contact with the water, an aperture (24) extending through the upper and lower skin and defined by a sidewall (100) enclosure between the lower skin (15) and the upper skin (23) to maintain the integrity of the shell, wherein the aperture (129) removably secures a propulsion means (31) for propelling the watercraft (11), such that a cavity within the shell remains watertight to allow for practical functioning when the propulsion means (31) is removed.

Abstract: A mastless sail for use in a two-seat kayak is disclosed. The apparatus is designed with a boomstick feature for supporting and controlling the bottom of the sail. The existing kayak paddles support and control the top of the sail. The apparatus is also designed for fast assembly and disassembly. No alterations to the kayak are necessary.

Abstract: A kayak and canoe refloating device includes a flotation mat and at least two tethers configured for flexible attachment on one end to the flotation mat and on the other end to the side of the kayak and canoe. The flotation mat has a plurality of baffles and a length, width and depth when inflated sufficient to support a major portion of a water-filled kayak or a canoe when rolled into an upside down position onto the flotation mat for draining the kayak or canoe.

Abstract: A removable, storage box for use within a canoe or other small boat. The shape of the box is such that it fits securely within the tapered bow or stem of a canoe or any watercraft having adequately shaped bow and/or stern regions, without degrading the watercraft's stability or seaworthiness. The key to the utility of the box is that because of its overall shaped it can be wedged in between the watercraft's floor and the underside of its gunwale flanges. Once the box is so situated, its wedged fit holds it in place both for water travel; during portaging, it can be removed for carrying on one's back or it can be left in place to be carried along with the canoe. Also, because of the wedge fit, the lid of the box is held firmly closed during travel by the gunwale flanges. Because of the thermal insulation of the box, this tight closure of the lid allows either hot or cold items to be transported without their undergoing undesired temperature chages.

Abstract: A cockpit system for a kayak having a deck and a cockpit opening defined in the deck. The cockpit system comprises bow and stern deck portions, a coaming assembly, and a transition member. The bow and stern deck portions form the deck. The cockpit opening is formed in the bow deck portion. The deck gap region is formed between the bow deck portion and the stern deck portion. The coaming assembly extends around the cockpit opening. The transition member is arranged between the bow deck portion and the stern deck portion. The transition member is sized and dimensioned to fill the deck gap region.

Abstract: A portable self-rescue device for a capsized kayaker used in combination with a kayak, on a body of water. The invention has an extendible telescopic arm with a proximal end and a distal end, a collapsible container attached to the distal end of the extendible telescopic arm and a collapsible ladder platform assembly with a retractable step. The extendible telescopic arm acts as a lever and the collapsible container fills rapidly with water and acts as a weight that counters the weight of a capsized kayaker as he or she climbs onto the collapsible ladder platform assembly on the opposite side of the kayak.

Abstract: An emergency air system for kayaks is disclosed. The emergency air system can be coupled to a kayak skirt or may be coupled to the body of the kayak. The air system includes a breathing tube which includes a mouthpiece. Preferably, the breathing tube is secured to the kayak skirt or the kayak body with a pair of opposing, flat washers.

Abstract: A tray which is easily attached to the rim of the cockpit of a kayak. The top surface of the tray is provided with recessed compartments for retaining various items therein. At least one recess is designed to retain a standard-sized beverage container. A clamp, formed on the tray, is designed to securely retain the kayak's paddle thereby freeing the rower's hands when desired. The tray is fabricated from molded plastic or a hard rubber.