An offshore method includes providing an elongate support string for extending between a mobile offshore drilling unit and a seabed location. The string has an upper portion and a lower portion, and an articulated joint is provided between the upper portion and the lower portion. The provision of the articulated joint maintains the lower portion of the elongate support string in a substantially vertical orientation and increases the safe operating radius of the mobile offshore drilling unit or increases the speed at which the unit may transit through the sea with objects suspended via the elongate support string.