Abstract: A system is provided for securing a vessel (24) such as a tanker to a moored body (12) that is moored to the sea floor, which enables the vessel to remain secured in more severe weather. In addition to the deployed length (27) of securing line (26) that extends between the moored body and the vessel, applicant stores an additional length (28) of securing line. When large drift forces are applied to the vessel, the vessel is allowed to drift away from the moored body, while a braking apparatus (34) pays out the previously-stored length of securing line, while resisting such pay out by maintaining a high securing line tension such as 300 tons. When the drift force decreases to a predetermined low level such as 60 tons, the braking apparatus draws in the securing line to draw back the vessel towards its quiescent position.