The present invention provides a method for transporting an elongate member through water. The elongate member has a first end portion and a second end portion. The method comprises the steps of: adjusting the buoyancy of the elongate member to ensure that the elongate member is buoyant; providing at least one weight acting on each end portion of the elongate member; and transporting the elongate member through water in an inverted catenary configuration. The elongate member can be transported below the wave affected zone. The or each weight acting on each end portion of the elongate member can be detachably connected thereto. The elongate member can be transported by towing.