Marine Engineering and Naval Architecture

Mediterranean mooring :  For this type of mooring, a pre-calculated position is determined and approached using engine movements. The bow initially is made to cant towards the berth and the starboard anchor is let go in that positions. After this the engines are run astern and the port anchor is let go at the designated spot. The vessel falls astern and swings to starboard. Thus vessel is held by both the anchors as it approaches the quay. Stern lines are then passed. Moorings are kept tight by using the anchor cables. The positioning of vessel is such that mooring is completed with around four shackles on each anchor. Often tide is used to control drift of the vessel towards quay while positioning it by heaving or paying out on one of the anchors. Running Mooring :  This manoeuvre takes relatively short duration compared to Mediterranean mooring and offers more control of the vessel. The vessel’s starboard anchor is let go at a position approximately...

Single buoy or single point mooring :  Often larger ships which cannot approach ports and terminal are berthed outside the port limits or in sheltered anchorages and the cargo transfer carried out with the help of Single point or single buoy moorings. The basic principle of the buoy is to keep the position of the vessel with respect to the buoy steady and at the same time allowing vessels to swing to wind and sea.. Often a tug is provided at the aft to keep the ship at a fixed angle and distance from the buoy. The buoy is fixed by positioning it in the centre of four anchors connected to it. The ship is made fast to the buoy with the help of a single chain or two which is secured onboard to the bow stopper. In general while approaching Single point or single buoy moorings weather is a major criteria in determining whether to berth the vessel or not. Calm seas with low swell and wind force below 15kts are considered favorable to make an approach. Presence of strong tidal curren...