Cylindrical element profiled to reduce vortex induced vibration (VIV) and/or drag

A cylindrical element adapted for immersion in a body of water, the cylindrical element having an outer surface arranged, in use, to be in contact with the water, the outer surface comprising:

• at least two rows of repeating shapes provided thereon,
• each row of repeating shapes being separated from each adjacent row by a groove arrangement and each shape within a row being separated from adjacent shapes by at least one groove;
• wherein the groove arrangement for each row of repeating shapes comprises an upper groove and a lower groove, where each of the upper and lower grooves encircles the full 360 degree circumference of the generally cylindrical element such that each of said upper and lower grooves is continuous around the cylindrical element;
• wherein the groove arrangement provides at least one separated path for a flow of water to follow around the circumference of the cylindrical element, such that water flowing within the groove arrangement meets at least one flow separation point;
• wherein the outer surface of the cylindrical element reduces Vortex Induced Vibration (VIV) and/or drag acting upon the cylindrical element.