A play structure is formed from flexible struts supporting a fabric. The struts are inserted through pockets along the edges of the fabric. The struts are joined together by connectors at apexes of the structure. The struts form an upper frame and a lower frame. The upper and lower frames are connected by battens. The struts and battens hold the fabric in a selected shape, such as a sailboat. The battens are formed from flat, flexible members that are bent about their longitudinal axis to form a C-shaped cross section. Ends of the battens are inserted into curved batten receivers on the connectors. When a downward force is applied, the upper frame is pressed toward the lower frame. The battens bend and flatten to resiliently allow the structure to collapse. When the force is relieved, the battens resiliently resume their curved shape, restoring the structure to its original configuration.

The invention generally relates to devices for stabilizing floating structures and systems and methods utilizing such stabilization devices. Some embodiments of the stabilization device include a fabric material having a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The expanded configuration of the fabric material may form a column of the fabric material. The column of fabric material may define an internal volume. The front end of the column of fabric material may be closed, and the back end of the column of fabric material may define an opening for receiving water for filling the internal volume. When filled with water, the stabilization device may improve roll stabilization of a floating structure. The floating structure may be a flotation device of an emergency flotation system, boat, or inflatable raft, for example. The emergency flotation system may be used with aircraft, (e.g., helicopters) to provide stabilization when the aircraft is ditched in water.

A kit is provided to attach two or more boats together either at shore or while in deep water without exiting either boat so the two watercraft function as one, separated by a constant stable distance. A hammock may be stretched between the two boats with hooks and straps. When the hammock is allowed to extend below the surface of the water, ease of entry into and exit from the water is assured. When the hammock is stretched tightly between the boats, a stable, dry platform is provided for items such as fishing supplies, hunting equipment, coolers, camera equipment, etc. An adjustable or fixed distance may be provided between boats for different uses of the hammock.

A kit is provided to attach two or more boats together either at shore or while in deep water without exiting either boat so the two watercraft function as one, separated by a constant stable distance. A hammock may be stretched between the two boats with hooks and straps. When the hammock is allowed to extend below the surface of the water, ease of entry into and exit from the water is assured. When the hammock is stretched tightly between the boats, a stable, dry platform is provided for items such as fishing supplies, hunting equipment, coolers, camera equipment, etc. An adjustable or fixed distance may be provided between boats for different uses of the hammock.