FIELD: loading and unloading fluid materials, oil in particular. SUBSTANCE: one end of buoy may be connected with at least one service pipe line; besides that, it may be introduced into submersed chamber which is open underneath in floating vessel. In the course of operation, buoy forms transfer joint between service pipe line and piping system laid on board the ship. Buoy is provided with outer floating member which may be locked and released in shipboard intake chamber by means of locking mechanism located inside it and central member mounted rotatably in outer floating member; central member forms passage for fluid material whose ends are adapted for connection to service pipe line and to shipboard piping system, respectively. Outer floating member is provided with upper thrust surface for tight contact with sealing flange found in intake chamber. EFFECT: prompt and ease connection and disconnection under bad weather conditions. 10 cl, 8 dwg
