An anode column for protecting a marine structure from corrosion includes: (a) an elongated guide having upper and lower ends, and adapted to be physically supported in an upright position in a body of water which overlies a seabed, independent of the marine structure; (b) an elongated conductive anode carrier surrounding the upright guide; (c) at least one sacrificial anode carried by the anode carrier and; and (b) an electrical conductor extending from the column and adapted to be connected to the marine structure at a location accessible from a surface of the body of water, wherein the at least one anode is electrically connected to the conductor through the anode carrier. A method is provided for installing the anode column from the surface.