Patent ID: 7255057

Claim:
A ramp assembly adapted for use with a pontoon boat, which comprises: (a) a support structure having at least one elongated bearing surface track, the support structure being affixed to the underside of the boat in such a way that, in use, the bearing surface track extends generally horizontally; (b) an elongated platform having an outboard end and an inboard end; (c) a first shaft to which the inboard end of the platform is pivotally connected; (d) means, including the first shaft and at least one bearing block connected thereto which slides within the bearing surface track, for slideably adjusting horizontal extension of the platform relative to the elongated bearing surface track; (e) a floatable body mounted on the platform proximate with the outboard end, the floatable body having sufficient buoyancy to float itself and the platform when the platform is extended; and (f) means for extending and retracting the platform using the motion of the boat as it moves through the water, the platform being extended when the boat moves in the direction away from the outboard end, and the platform being retracted when the boat moves in the direction toward the outboard end.