Questions and answers about Maritime Law
My brother works as a crew member on a large cargo vessel that visits New Zealand ports, and he says he has not been paid for months and cannot leave. Do seafarers have special legal protections, and who can he contact?
I keep my yacht at a marina berth, and during a storm another boat broke loose and hit mine, causing considerable damage. The marina says its berth agreement excludes responsibility for damage. Can I still claim against the marina or the other owner?
We plan to charter a yacht for a family holiday and the operator has sent a long contract full of conditions. I am concerned about what happens if we have an accident, and how much we could be liable for. What should I look out for?
My company supplied fuel and repairs to a foreign vessel that then left port without paying. We hear it may return to New Zealand next month. Is it possible to have the ship arrested to secure payment?
What rights do I have if I find abandoned or derelict vessels in my bay? 1 answer
1 answerA neglected boat has been anchored in our bay for months, leaking oil and gradually breaking apart. Locals are worried it is a hazard and an eyesore. Who deals with abandoned vessels and can the owner be forced to act?
What happens after a serious accident at sea, do I face an investigation? 1 answer
1 answerOur small commercial charter boat capsized in rough weather, and although everyone survived, some passengers were injured. I have now been contacted by an investigator and I am worried about criminal liability. How does the process work?
My yacht lost its engine in bad weather and a passing fishing vessel towed us to safety. Now the owner is asking for a large salvage payment, and I do not know if that is legitimate. What are my obligations?
Do passengers on a commercial ferry or charter have any legal protection? 1 answer
1 answerI booked a whale-watching trip that was cancelled at the last minute, after we had already travelled a long way. On another occasion a different operator’s boat ran aground. Are commercial marine operators held to any legal standards?
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