Abstract: A system for receiving and securing an object at sea comprises a framework installed on a ship and having a track. A cradle is mounted on the track for movement between two positions of which one is substantially at or below the water line of the ship. The cradle includes guides for directing the object into the cradle and a locking mechanism for securing the object therein. Means are also provided for moving the cradle between the two positions on the track. In a variant of the invention, the system can be adapted for use in receiving and securing an object in a marine environment on a receptor body more generally. Such system comprises a target mounted on the body and having guides for directing the objection into the target, and a winding mechanism with a line associated therewith. The line is attachable to the object and extends between the guides of the target. The mechanism is operable to wind in the line through the guides to draw the object into the target between the guides.