Loading buoys

摘要

A dynamically positioned loading buoy 10 for transferring liquid from an offshore structure to a tanker comprises a floating hull 12 provided with thrusters 18 that are used to position the loading buoy 10 and tanker in a safe position relative to the offshore structure. The use of the thrusters 18 on the loading buoy 10 eliminates the need for anchors and mooring lines for the loading buoy. Transfer hose 22 used to transfer oil between the offshore structure and the loading buoy 10 may be stored on the loading buoy 10 or the offshore structure. Transfer hose 24 used to transfer oil between the loading buoy 10 and the tanker is stored on a reel on the loading buoy 10.