Abstract: This invention relates to devices and methods to control the movement of boats and other objects, for example container loads, which are being moved above the deck of a ship moving in a seaway. In particular it is concerned with devices to restrain a boat or other object with respect to lateral swinging movement when suspended by a ship-mounted hoist. The invention is of particular, but by no means exclusive, application to the launch and recovery of inflatable and rigid inflatable rescue, life and work boats.