Jet propelled boat

Abstract

Several embodiments of jet propelled watercraft wherein the jet propulsion unit has a water inlet opening forming portion that is movable between a driving position in which water may be drawn through the opening and a service position wherein the opening may be accessed for servicing. A screen is fixed relative to the water inlet opening of the jet propulsion unit and cooperates with a corresponding opening in the hull to force all water entering the water inlet opening to pass through the screen when the jet propulsion unit is in its driving position. However, the screen is spaced from the water inlet opening forming portion of the jet propulsion unit in its service position so as to permit servicing of the jet propulsion unit water inlet opening without removal of the screen. A variety of interlock arrangements are disclosed so as to preclude driving of the jet propulsion unit when it is not in its driving position. A litter bag is also supported within a tunnel in which the jet propulsion unit is contained for receiving foreign articles so that they do not have to be discharged back into the body of water in which the watercraft is operating. In addition, a liquid tank for the engine is positioned within and protected by a flotation device through which certain control components for the watercraft also extend.