Though I have tried to launch more than 5 times off buoys at Long Pond without success, I have installed 2 buoys for the summer to increase my chances. One is a 3′ dog anchor with a triangular head for anchoring your kite while you un roll your lines to attach your bar the other buoy. It is 5′ long and very solidly anchored with a round head. If you attach your bar to the dog anchor (west most buoy) it may pull loose if your kite pulls very hard. So ya the buoys are a ways from shore but us intermediates need a safe distance buffer. Its only crotch deep. Currently there are carabiners on both buoys but I need one for my land anchor (should get it tomorrow unless its too windy for my 7.5M. Naturally use at your own risk, this is not something a beginner should attempt.