Abstract: A top termination (70, FIG. 2) lies at the top of a riser (22A) that extends vertically from the sea floor into a moon pool of a floating unit, or vessel (12) that is drilling or servicing a well, wherein the riser transfers fluids such as used drilling fluids up to the vessel. The vessel can move vertically in heave as well as tilt without requiring the top termination to follow such motions. The top termination carries fluid to the vessel through jumper hoses (74) that bend to take up vessel vertical motion and tilt. The weight of the top termination is carried by the vessel through flexible lines (44A) that extend from near the top termination up to the vessel.