Shipping Lawyer Study Guide 2026

Following M/S Bremen v. Zapata Off-Shore Co. (1972), the Supreme Court held that forum selection clauses in maritime contracts are prima facie valid and enforceable unless shown to be unreasonable or unjust.

Sister ship arrest allows a creditor to arrest another vessel owned by the same debtor as the one involved in the claim, expanding the available security for the claim.

A General Average Adjuster (typically an Average Adjuster or Average Stater) is an independent expert, often appointed by the shipowner, who determines what losses qualify for general average, calculates each party's contributory value, and prepares the formal adjustment document.

Under a bareboat (demise) charter, the charterer takes complete possession, control, and navigation of the vessel, assuming full liability as if it were the owner, whereas a time charterer merely directs commercial employment while the owner manages the ship.

Rule A is the foundational definition: a general average act exists when any extraordinary sacrifice or expenditure is intentionally and reasonably made or incurred for the common safety of the ship and cargo in a common maritime adventure.

Supplemental Admiralty Rule C governs in rem actions, including the arrest of vessels to enforce maritime liens.