Abstract: An apparatus provides additional safety during the launching of survival craft from a ship or platform by which it is attached. A safety strop is comprised of a connecting line which is attached at its upper end to a means for lowering a launch pendant and a lifeboat. the lifeboat is equipped with an on load release means for launching it. The lower end of the connecting line is attached to a released means such as a shackle or a pelican hook. The connecting line release means is releaseably connected to a hang off lug assembly, which is attached to the on load release means. The connecting line has a longer length than the launch pendant, so that no load is carried by the connecting line unless the lifeboat is prematurely released from the launch pendant.

Abstract: Apparatus for launching a lifeboat, rescue craft or like small craft from a marine platform or other vessel in a bows-out heading comprises a boom mounted on the vessel that deploys outwardly as the boat is lowered and that carries a bow line releasably attached to the boat. The boom and bow-line are arranged so that the bow-line holds the boat in a bows-out heading after the boat has been lowered and on release of the fall or falls accelerates the boat away from the vessel.

Abstract: A davit launched inflatable life raft in a rigid container fastened to a deck by releasable latches is released and the raft inflated at a predetermined depth in a float free mode. A painter line fastened to the life raft is releasably connected to a retaining member mounted on the deck so that upon release of the container the retaining member will be actuated and the painter line secured to the retaining member to limit movement of the raft on the surface of the water to the area over the retaining member. A release lanyard for the davit hook and raft actuating cables connected to the lid fasteners are also releasably held in the retaining member for releasing the davit hook from the raft supporting davit ring and for releasing the fasteners holding the lid in place. Lifting of the flotable container provides relative movement of the retaining member mounted on the deck and the container to actuate a locking hook of the retaining member.