Rampgirl,
This particular boat is made of wood. The capsules are Carbon Fiber / Kevlar. The inboard Hydroplane capsules do not break away like the drag boats, we are along for the ride! Most drivers are breathing from an on-board air system. There are no such airbag systems that I am aware of, however the capsules have a considerable amount of floatation foam in and around them to make them float as much as possible.
Tommy