Maritime and Shipping Contracts: Legal Frameworks

Course Objectives:

• Understand the key legal frameworks governing maritime and shipping contracts.
• Gain knowledge of the essential principles and terms used in shipping contracts.
• Examine the roles and responsibilities of parties involved in maritime and shipping transactions.
• Analyze dispute resolution methods and legal remedies in maritime shipping contracts.

Introduction to Maritime and Shipping Law

• Overview of Maritime Law: History and development.
• Legal framework governing shipping contracts: International conventions (e.g., SOLAS, Hague-Visby Rules).
• The role of national maritime laws and regulations.
• Key players in the maritime industry (owners, operators, charterers, insurers).

Types of Maritime and Shipping Contracts

• Charterparty contracts: Different types (time charter, voyage charter, bareboat charter).
• Bills of lading: Nature, function, and legal implications.
• Freight contracts and cargo carriage agreements.
• Sale of ships and marine insurance contracts.

Key Terms and Conditions in Maritime Contracts

• Basic terms in shipping contracts: Freight, laytime, demurrage, and dispatch.
• Liability issues: Carrier’s obligations, risks, and exceptions.
• Force Majeure and unforeseen circumstances in shipping contracts.
• Dispute resolution clauses: Jurisdiction, arbitration, and mediation.

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Legal Remedies and Dispute Resolution in Maritime Contracts

• Breach of contract and remedies in maritime law.
• Common legal actions: Claims for damages, cargo loss, delay, and non-performance.
• The role of maritime courts and arbitration bodies.
• International legal frameworks for resolving maritime disputes (e.g., UNCITRAL, IMO).

DATE:

1ST BATCH: 20th – 23rd Jan, 2026    

2ND BATCH: 12th – 15th May, 2026

3RD BATCH: 8th – 11th Sep, 2026