Abstract: A pier comprising a floating pierhead structure which has transverse thrurs to assist maneuvering operations and four pedestal cranes to move cargo from and to ocean going ships docked at the structure. At the stern of the structure is a stern ramp receiving platform which is used during cargo off loading operations to allow access to the structure from ships equipped with stern ramps. The mooring system for the floating pierhead structure consist of a single point mooring anchor system located at the bow of the structure and four anchor legs located at the stern of the structure. This mooring system ensures minimal movement of the floating pierhead structure at its bow where the floating pierhead structure interfaces with a fixed position approachway, but allows the structure to be rotated over an arc of ninety degrees. The approachway for the rapidly deployed pier is a fixed position roadway connecting the floating pierhead structure to the shore line.

Abstract: An apparatus for spanning the distance between a fixed first platform and a ovable second platform includes a ramp; a first pivoting junction located between one end of the ramp and the fixed first platform, and a second sliding junction located between the other end of the ramp and the movable second platform. The first pivoting junction accommodates pitch, roll and heave motion between the fixed platform and the ramp and the second sliding junction accommodates elevation changes between the fixed platform and the movable platform. Means are provided to dampening the motion of the ramp. Other means are provided to limit the side to side movement of the ramp.