Advances in Berthing and Mooring of Ships and Offshore Structures

Two previous NATO Advanced Study Institutes (ASI) on berthing and mooring of ships have been held; the first in Lisboa, Portugal in 1965, and the second at Wallingford, England in 1973. These ASls have contributed significantly to the under­ standing and development of fenders and mooring, as have works by Oil Companies International Marine Forum (1978) and PIANC (1984). Developments in ship sizes and building of new specialized terminals at very exposed locations have necessitated further advances in the combined mooring and fendering technology. Exploration and exploitation of the continental shelves have also brought about new and challenging problems, developments and solutions. Offshore activities and developments have in­ fluenced and improved knowledge about both ships and other floating structures which are berthed and/or moored under various environmental conditions. The scope of this ASI was to present recent advances in berth­ ing and mooring of ships and mooring of floating offshore structures, focusing on models and tools available with a view towards safety and reduction of frequencies and consequences of accidents.