Abstract: This invention relates to an improved method for rapidly laying a pipeline in deep water by an anchored floating means. The rapid laying is obtained by varying the forces exerted by winches mounted on the floating means in such a manner as to impart a rapid movement to the floating means, in the longitudinal direction of laying, for a distance equal to the length of the piece of pipe added to the free end of the pipeline to be laid. Before termination of the rapid movement there is applied to the floating means a compensating force, whose direction, sense and intensity are such that, together with the forces exerted by the winches, said compensating force opposes moment by moment the central elastic force which induces a damped oscillatory motion in the floating means. This oscillation is thus eliminated or drastically and rapidly dampened.