Abstract: The invention relates to flexible risers system for transfer of hydrocarbons between a sea bed installation and a vessel(10) floating at the sea surface. The riser (18) is provided with means (20) for protecting the riser (18) from impacts. The protection means (20) covers at least the upper part of the riser (18) and may be retractable to an in-active position. When in operation, the riser protection means (20) is either suspended from the vessel (10) or from a submerged turret buoy, forming part of a mooring system for the vessel (10). At its lower end the protection means (20) is provided with an annular body (22) surrounding the riser (18), the annular body (22) having sufficient weight to provide a downwardly acting force in the riser protection means (20), causing a stretch or a tension in the riser protection means (20).

Abstract: The invention relates to flexible risers for transfer of hydrocarbons between a sea bed installation and a vessel (10) floating at the sea surface. The riser (18) is provided with means (20) for protecting the riser (18) from impacts. The protection means (20) covers at least the upper part of the riser (18) and is retractable to an inactive position. When in operation, the riser protection means (20) is either suspended from the vessel (10) or from a submerged turret buoy, forming part of a mooring system for the vessel (10).