International Maritime Conventions
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Insurance Law and Maritime course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Able Bodied Seaman #
A crew member who is physically capable of performing all the duties required on a ship, and holds the necessary certifications and training. Related terms: Ordinary Seaman, Certificates of Competency. The Able Bodied Seaman is a crucial part of the ship's crew, and is responsible for a variety of tasks including deck maintenance, cargo operations, and emergency response. To become an Able Bodied Seaman, one must complete the required training and obtain the necessary certifications, such as the Certificate of Competency.
Absolute Liability #
A legal concept where a party is held liable for damages or injuries, regardless of fault or negligence. Related terms: Strict Liability, Vicarious Liability. Absolute Liability is often applied in cases where the activity or operation is considered inherently risky or hazardous, and the party responsible for the activity is held liable for any damages or injuries that may occur. For example, a shipowner may be held absolutely liable for any oil spills that occur as a result of their operations, regardless of whether they were at fault or not.
Acceptance #
The act of accepting a contract or agreement, and agreeing to be bound by its terms. Related terms: Offer, Consideration, Contract. Acceptance is a crucial part of the contract formation process, and can be made in a variety of ways, including verbally or in writing. For example, a shipowner may accept a charterer's offer to charter a ship by signing a charter party agreement.
Act of God #
An event or occurrence that is beyond human control, and is often used as a defense in liability cases. Related terms: Force Majeure, Unforeseen Circumstances. Act of God is often used to describe natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods, and can be used to excuse a party's non-performance of a contract. For example, a shipowner may claim that a hurricane was an Act of God, and therefore they are not liable for any damages or losses that occurred as a result.
Administrative Law #
The branch of law that deals with the administration and regulation of government agencies and entities. Related terms: Maritime Law, International Law. Administrative Law is important in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the regulation of shipping and maritime activities. For example, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a regulatory body that sets standards and guidelines for the maritime industry, and is subject to administrative law.
Admiralty Law #
The branch of law that deals with maritime and naval matters, including shipping, navigation, and commerce. Admiralty Law is a specialized area of law that deals with the unique issues and challenges of the maritime industry, and provides a framework for the resolution of disputes and the regulation of maritime activities. For example, Admiralty Law may be used to resolve disputes over maritime contracts, such as charter parties or bills of lading.
Agency #
The relationship between a principal and an agent, where the agent acts on behalf of the principal. Related terms: Principal, Agent, Authority. Agency is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it allows parties to act on behalf of each other in a variety of situations. For example, a shipowner may appoint a ship manager to act as their agent, and the ship manager will have the authority to make decisions and take actions on behalf of the shipowner.
Agent #
A person or entity that acts on behalf of a principal, and has the authority to make decisions and take actions. Related terms: Principal, Agency, Authority. An agent may be a ship manager, a charterer, or a freight forwarder, and will have the authority to act on behalf of the principal in a variety of situations. For example, a ship manager may have the authority to negotiate charter parties and arrange for the maintenance and repair of the ship.
Agreement #
A contract or understanding between two or more parties, where they agree to be bound by certain terms and conditions. Related terms: Contract, Offer, Acceptance. An agreement may be verbal or written, and may be used to establish the terms and conditions of a maritime contract, such as a charter party or a bill of lading. For example, a shipowner and a charterer may agree to charter a ship for a certain period of time, and the agreement will outline the terms and conditions of the charter.
Arrest #
The process of seizing or detaining a ship, often as a means of securing a claim or enforcing a judgment. Related terms: Attachment, Seizure, Maritime Lien. Arrest is a powerful tool in the maritime industry, and can be used to secure a claim or enforce a judgment against a shipowner or other party. For example, a creditor may arrest a ship to secure a debt, and the ship will be detained until the debt is paid or the claim is resolved.
Assignment #
The transfer of rights or obligations from one party to another, often in the context of a contract or agreement. Related terms: Novation, Delegation, Subrogation. Assignment is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it allows parties to transfer their rights and obligations to other parties. For example, a shipowner may assign their rights under a charter party to a new charterer, and the new charterer will assume the obligations and responsibilities of the original charterer.
Authority #
The power or permission to act on behalf of another party, often in the context of agency or representation. Related terms: Agency, Agent, Principal. Authority is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it allows parties to act on behalf of each other in a variety of situations. For example, a ship manager may have the authority to negotiate charter parties and arrange for the maintenance and repair of the ship, on behalf of the shipowner.
Average #
A type of loss or damage that is shared among multiple parties, often in the context of maritime insurance. Related terms: General Average, Particular Average, Marine Insurance. Average is an important concept in maritime insurance, as it allows parties to share the risk of loss or damage. For example, a shipowner and a cargo owner may share the risk of loss or damage to the cargo, through a system of average.
Bareboat Charter #
A
Bill of Lading #
A document that evidences the contract of carriage, and outlines the terms and conditions of the shipment. Related terms: Charter Party, Contract of Carriage, Marine Insurance. Bill of Lading is a crucial document in the maritime industry, as it provides evidence of the contract of carriage and outlines the terms and conditions of the shipment. For example, a bill of lading may outline the type and quantity of cargo, the route and destination of the shipment, and the terms and conditions of the contract.
Bulk Cargo #
A
Canal #
A waterway that connects two bodies of water, often used for navigation and shipping. Related terms: Strait, Channel, Waterway. Canal is an important part of the maritime industry, as it provides a route for ships to travel between different bodies of water. For example, the Suez Canal is a major shipping route that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, and allows ships to travel between Europe and Asia.
Certificate of Competency #
A document that evidences a person's qualification and competence to perform a particular task or function. Related terms: License, Certificate, Endorsement. Certificate of Competency is an important document in the maritime industry, as it provides evidence of a person's qualification and competence to perform a particular task or function. For example, a ship's officer may hold a Certificate of Competency, which evidences their qualification and competence to perform their duties.
Certificate of Registration #
A document that evidences a ship's registration and ownership. Related terms: Certificate of Ownership, Registration, Flag State. Certificate of Registration is an important document in the maritime industry, as it provides evidence of a ship's registration and ownership. For example, a ship may be registered in a particular country, and the Certificate of Registration will provide evidence of the ship's ownership and registration.
Charter #
A contract or agreement between a shipowner and a charterer, where the charterer has the use of the ship for a certain period of time. Charter is a common type of contract in the maritime industry, and allows the charterer to have use of the ship for a certain period of time. For example, a charterer may enter into a charter with a shipowner, and will have the use of the ship for a certain period of time, in exchange for the payment of charter hire.
Charter Party #
A document that evidences the contract of charter, and outlines the terms and conditions of the charter. Related terms: Charter, Time Charter, Voyage Charter. Charter Party is a crucial document in the maritime industry, as it provides evidence of the contract of charter and outlines the terms and conditions of the charter. For example, a charter party may outline the type and quantity of cargo, the route and destination of the shipment, and the terms and conditions of the charter.
Classification Society #
A organization that sets and enforces standards for the design and construction of ships. Related terms: Shipbuilding, Ship Repair, Maritime Safety. Classification Society is an important part of the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the design and construction of ships. For example, a classification society may set standards for the design and construction of ships, and will inspect and certify ships to ensure that they meet those standards.
Collision #
A type of accident where two or more ships come into contact with each other, often resulting in damage or loss. Related terms: Allision, Accident, Marine Insurance. Collision is a serious type of accident in the maritime industry, and can result in significant damage or loss. For example, a collision between two ships may result in damage to the ships, injury or loss of life, and environmental damage.
Commercial Law #
The branch of law that deals with commercial and business activities, including contracts, sales, and trade. Commercial Law is an important part of the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for commercial and business activities. For example, commercial law may govern the sale and purchase of goods, the formation of contracts, and the resolution of disputes.
Condition #
A term or provision in a contract that must be fulfilled or complied with, often in order to avoid breach or liability. Related terms: Warranty, Guarantee, Contract. Condition is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the terms and conditions of a contract. For example, a contract may include a condition that the ship must be in a certain state of repair, or that the cargo must be loaded in a certain way.
Confidentiality #
The duty or obligation to keep certain information or documents confidential and not disclose them to others. Related terms: Privilege, Privacy, Non-Disclosure Agreement. Confidentiality is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the protection of sensitive information and documents. For example, a shipowner may have a duty of confidentiality to keep certain information about their ships or operations confidential, and may be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement to protect that information.
Consignee #
The person or entity that receives the goods or cargo at the destination. Related terms: Consignor, Shipper, Carrier. Consignee is an important part of the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the delivery of goods and cargo. For example, a consignee may be a buyer or a receiver of goods, and will take delivery of the goods at the destination.
Consignor #
The person or entity that ships the goods or cargo from the place of origin. Related terms: Consignee, Shipper, Carrier. Consignor is an important part of the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the shipment of goods and cargo. For example, a consignor may be a seller or a supplier of goods, and will ship the goods from the place of origin to the destination.
Container #
A type of enclosure or receptacle used to carry or store goods or cargo. Related terms: Containerized Cargo, Breakbulk Cargo, General Cargo. Container is a common type of enclosure or receptacle in the maritime industry, and is used to carry or store goods and cargo. For example, a container may be used to ship goods such as electronics, clothing, or machinery, and will be loaded onto a ship or other vehicle for transportation.
Contract #
A binding agreement between two or more parties, where they agree to be bound by certain terms and conditions. Related terms: Charter Party, Bill of Lading, Marine Insurance. Contract is a crucial concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the terms and conditions of a agreement. For example, a contract may be used to establish the terms and conditions of a charter party, a bill of lading, or a marine insurance policy.
Convention #
A type of international agreement or treaty that governs or regulates a particular activity or industry. Related terms: Treaty, Agreement, International Law. Convention is an important part of the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the regulation of maritime activities. For example, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) is a convention that governs the safety of ships and the prevention of accidents.
Counterparty #
A person or entity that is on the opposite side of a transaction or contract. Related terms: Contract, Agreement, Obligation. Counterparty is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the parties to a contract or transaction. For example, a shipowner and a charterer may be counterparties to a charter party, and will have obligations and responsibilities to each other under the contract.
Crew #
The personnel or staff that operate and manage a ship, including the master, officers, and seamen. Related terms: Master, Officer, Seaman. Crew is an essential part of the maritime industry, as it provides the personnel and staff necessary to operate and manage a ship. For example, a crew may include a master, officers, and seamen, and will be responsible for the safe operation and management of the ship.
Custom #
A practice or usage that is widely accepted and followed in a particular industry or community. Related terms: Usage, Practice, Industry Custom. Custom is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the practices and usages that are widely accepted and followed. For example, a custom may exist in the maritime industry to use a particular type of contract or agreement, or to follow a certain procedure or protocol.
Damage #
A type of loss or harm that is caused to a ship, its cargo, or its passengers. Related terms: Loss, Harm, Marine Insurance. Damage is a serious type of loss or harm in the maritime industry, and can result in significant financial and other consequences. For example, a ship may suffer damage in a collision or other accident, and may require repairs or other remedial action to restore it to a seaworthy condition.
Deck Cargo #
A type of cargo that is carried on the deck of a ship, rather than in the holds. Related terms: Hold Cargo, Containerized Cargo, Breakbulk Cargo. Deck Cargo is a common type of cargo in the maritime industry, and requires specialized handling and storage. For example, a ship may carry deck cargo such as vehicles, machinery, or other large or bulky items, and will require specialized equipment and facilities to handle and store the cargo.
Demise Charter #
A
Demurrage #
A type of charge or fee that is imposed on a ship or its owners for delay or detention. Related terms: Detention, Delay, Laytime. Demurrage is a common type of charge or fee in the maritime industry, and is imposed on a ship or its owners for delay or detention. For example, a ship may be subject to demurrage if it is delayed in port or at sea, and will be required to pay a fee or charge for the delay.
Detention #
A type of delay or detention of a ship, often caused by circumstances beyond the control of the ship or its owners. Related terms: Demurrage, Delay, Laytime. Detention is a serious type of delay or detention in the maritime industry, and can result in significant financial and other consequences. For example, a ship may be detained in port or at sea due to bad weather, mechanical failure, or other circumstances beyond the control of the ship or its owners.
Disbursement #
A type of payment or expense that is incurred by a ship or its owners in the course of its operations. Related terms: Expense, Expenditure, Outlay. Disbursement is a common type of payment or expense in the maritime industry, and is incurred by a ship or its owners in the course of its operations. For example, a ship may incur disbursements for fuel, maintenance, and repairs, and will be required to pay for these expenses out of its operating budget.
Dispute #
A type of conflict or disagreement between two or more parties, often requiring resolution or settlement. Related terms: Arbitration, Mediation, Litigation. Dispute is a common type of conflict or disagreement in the maritime industry, and can arise in a variety of contexts, including contracts, charters, and other agreements. For example, a dispute may arise between a shipowner and a charterer over the terms of a charter party, or between a shipowner and a cargo owner over the terms of a bill of lading.
Documentary Credit #
A type of financial instrument that is used to facilitate trade and commerce. Related terms: Letter of Credit, Bank Guarantee, Performance Bond. Documentary Credit is a common type of financial instrument in the maritime industry, and is used to facilitate trade and commerce. For example, a documentary credit may be used to secure payment for goods or services, and will provide a guarantee of payment to the seller or supplier.
Dry Dock #
A type of facility or structure that is used to repair or maintain a ship, often by lifting it out of the water. Related terms: Ship Repair, Shipbuilding, Maritime Facility. Dry Dock is a common type of facility or structure in the maritime industry, and is used to repair or maintain a ship. For example, a ship may be lifted out of the water and placed in a dry dock for repairs or maintenance, and will be returned to the water when the work is complete.
Employment #
A type of relationship between a shipowner and a seafarer, where the seafarer is employed to work on the ship. Related terms: Seafarer, Shipowner, Crew. Employment is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the relationship between a shipowner and a seafarer. For example, a seafarer may be employed by a shipowner to work on a ship, and will be subject to the terms and conditions of the employment agreement.
Environment #
The natural surroundings or ecosystem in which a ship operates, including the air, water, and land. Related terms: Pollution, Conservation, Sustainability. Environment is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the natural surroundings or ecosystem in which a ship operates. For example, a ship may be required to comply with environmental regulations and standards, and will be subject to penalties or fines if it fails to do so.
Equipment #
A type of device or machine that is used to perform a particular task or function on a ship. Related terms: Machinery, Gear, Outfit. Equipment is a common type of device or machine in the maritime industry, and is used to perform a particular task or function on a ship. For example, a ship may be equipped with cranes, winches, or other machinery to handle cargo or perform other tasks.
Exclusion #
A type of provision or term in a contract or agreement that excludes or limits a particular liability or obligation. Related terms: Limitation, Exemption, Immunity. Exclusion is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the provisions or terms in a contract or agreement that exclude or limit a particular liability or obligation. For example, a contract may exclude liability for certain types of damage or loss, or may limit the amount of damages that can be claimed.
Flag State #
The country or state in which a ship is registered or flagged, and is responsible for its safety and regulation. Related terms: Port State, Registration, Certification. Flag State is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the country or state in which a ship is registered or flagged. For example, a ship may be registered in a particular country, and will be subject to the laws and regulations of that country.
Force Majeure #
A type of event or circumstance that is beyond the control of a party, and may excuse or justifi a failure to perform a contract or agreement. Related terms: Act of God, Unforeseen Circumstances, Impossibility. Force Majeure is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the events or circumstances that are beyond the control of a party. For example, a ship may be unable to perform a contract or agreement due to a force majeure event, such as a natural disaster or war.
Freight #
A type of payment or charge that is made for the transportation of goods or cargo. Related terms: Charter Hire, Demurrage, Detention. Freight is a common type of payment or charge in the maritime industry, and is made for the transportation of goods or cargo. For example, a shipowner may charge freight for the transportation of goods or cargo, and will be paid by the charterer or cargo owner.
General Average #
A type of loss or damage that is shared among multiple parties, often in the context of maritime insurance. Related terms: Particular Average, Marine Insurance, Average. General Average is an important concept in maritime insurance, as it provides a framework for the loss or damage that is shared among multiple parties. For example, a ship may suffer a general average loss, and the loss will be shared among the shipowner, cargo owners, and other parties.
Gross Tonnage #
A measure of a ship's size or capacity, often used to determine its regulatory or operational requirements. Related terms: Net Tonnage, Deadweight Tonnage, Cargo Capacity. Gross Tonnage is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the size or capacity of a ship. For example, a ship may have a gross tonnage of 10,000 tons, and will be subject to certain regulatory or operational requirements based on its size.
Guarantee #
A type of agreement or undertaking to secure or guarantee a particular obligation or liability. Related terms: Bond, Warranty, Indemnity. Guarantee is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the agreements or undertakings to secure or guarantee a particular obligation or liability. For example, a shipowner may provide a guarantee to secure a loan or other financial obligation, and will be responsible for fulfilling the obligation if the borrower defaults.
Hazard #
A type of risk or danger that is associated with a particular activity or operation, often requiring mitigation or precautions. Related terms: Risk, Danger, Safety. Hazard is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the risks or dangers that are associated with a particular activity or operation. For example, a ship may be subject to hazards such as bad weather, mechanical failure, or other risks, and will require mitigation or precautions to minimize the risks.
Hold #
A type of compartment or space on a ship that is used to carry or store goods or cargo. Related terms: Cargo Hold, Container Hold, Tank Hold. Hold is a common type of compartment or space on a ship, and is used to carry or store goods or cargo. For example, a ship may have multiple holds, each with its own cargo or storage capacity, and will be used to transport goods or cargo from one place to another.
Immunity #
A type of protection or exemption from liability or obligation, often granted to a particular person or entity. Related terms: Exclusion, Limitation, Privilege. Immunity is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the protection or exemption from liability or obligation. For example, a shipowner may be granted immunity from liability for certain types of damage or loss, or may be exempt from certain regulatory or operational requirements.
Indemnity #
A type of agreement or undertaking to compensate or reimburse a particular party for a loss or damage. Related terms: Guarantee, Bond, Warranty. Indemnity is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the agreements or undertakings to compensate or reimburse a particular party for a loss or damage. For example, a shipowner may provide an indemnity to compensate a cargo owner for loss or damage to their cargo, and will be responsible for fulfilling the indemnity if the cargo is lost or damaged.
Insurance #
A type of financial instrument that is used to manage or mitigate risk or uncertainty. Related terms: Marine Insurance, Hull Insurance, Cargo Insurance. Insurance is a common type of financial instrument in the maritime industry, and is used to manage or mitigate risk or uncertainty. For example, a shipowner may purchase insurance to cover the risk of loss or damage to their ship, or a cargo owner may purchase insurance to cover the risk of loss or damage to their cargo.
International Law #
The branch of law that deals with the relations and interactions between states and other entities on the international stage. Related terms: Maritime Law, Commercial Law, International Convention. International Law is an important part of the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the relations and interactions between states and other entities on the international stage. For example, international law may govern the use of force, the protection of human rights, and the regulation of international trade and commerce.
Laytime #
A type of period or time that is allowed for the loading or unloading of goods or cargo. Related terms: Demurrage, Detention, Freight. Laytime is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the period or time that is allowed for the loading or unloading of goods or cargo. For example, a ship may have a laytime of 10 days to load or unload cargo, and will be subject to demurrage or detention if it exceeds the laytime.
Liability #
A type of obligation or responsibility to pay or compensate for a particular loss or damage. Related terms: Responsibility, Obligation, Duty. Liability is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the obligations or responsibilities to pay or compensate for a particular loss or damage. For example, a shipowner may be liable for damage to a cargo, or a charterer may be liable for damage to a ship.
Limitation #
A type of provision or term in a contract or agreement that limits or restricts a particular liability or obligation. Related terms: Exclusion, Exemption, Immunity. Limitation is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the provisions or terms in a contract or agreement that limit or restrict a particular liability or obligation. For example, a contract may limit the liability of a shipowner for damage to a cargo, or may restrict the obligation of a charterer to pay for certain expenses or costs.
Loading #
The process of placing or putting goods or cargo on a ship, often in preparation for transportation or shipment. Related terms: Unloading, Discharging, Cargo Operations. Loading is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the process of placing or putting goods or cargo on a ship. For example, a ship may be loaded with cargo at a port or terminal, and will be prepared for transportation or shipment to its destination.
Logistics #
The process or management of the flow of goods, services, or information from one place to another. Related terms: Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing. Logistics is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the management of the flow of goods, services, or information from one place to another. For example, a logistics company may manage the transportation and storage of goods or cargo, and will provide a range of services to support the supply chain.
Loss #
A type of damage or harm that is suffered by a person or entity, often requiring compensation or reimbursement. Related terms: Damage, Harm, Compensation. Loss is an important concept in the maritime industry, as it provides a framework for the damage or harm that is suffered by a person or entity. For example, a ship may suffer a loss due to damage or destruction, or a cargo owner may suffer a loss due to damage or loss of their cargo.
Maintenance #
The process or activity of keeping or preserving a ship or its equipment in good working order. Related terms: Repair, Overhaul, Dry Docking.