Mooring Buoy
A non-navigational floating device anchored to the seabed, used for securing vessels in place without the need for traditional anchoring.
A mooring buoy is a specialised type of buoy designed to provide a secure point for vessels to tie up to, often used in harbours, marinas, or designated mooring fields. Unlike navigational buoys, which are used to mark channels or hazards, mooring buoys are specifically intended to hold vessels in position. They are anchored to the seabed using heavy chains, ropes, or cables connected to a permanent fixture such as a concrete block, helix anchor, or other secure mooring system. The buoy itself is typically constructed from durable, buoyant materials such as polyethene or fibreglass and is often brightly coloured for visibility.
Mooring buoys are advantageous because they reduce the need for vessels to deploy their anchors, which can damage sensitive seabeds, such as coral reefs or seagrass beds. They also help to organise mooring areas, preventing vessels from drifting into one another. A mooring buoy usually features a metal ring, cleat, or loop on its top, allowing the vessel’s mooring line to be easily attached. Some mooring buoys are equipped with additional features, such as lights for night-time visibility or identification numbers to correspond with specific mooring permits.
Increasingly, eco mooring buoy—or eco buoys—are being used in environmentally sensitive areas. These buoys are designed to further reduce the impact on fragile ecosystems. They typically employ advanced mooring systems, such as helical screw anchors and elastic mooring lines, to minimise seabed scouring and habitat damage. Eco buoys help to balance the needs of safe mooring with the protection of marine habitats, supporting sustainable boating practices and marine conservation efforts.
In recreational boating, mooring buoys are commonly used for temporary stops, allowing boaters to secure their vessels while they explore nearby areas or rest. They are also a critical component of marine infrastructure, ensuring safe and orderly mooring practices in busy waterways.
