The law of the sea

The manual sets out foundational principles of admiralty and maritime law, explaining sources of law, admiralty jurisdiction, and the criteria for determining what constitutes a vessel. It surveys legal rules governing contracts, carriage of goods, charter parties, collisions, salvage, towage, marine liens and mortgages, limitation of liability, and procedural remedies in maritime courts. Practical summaries and statutory appendices clarify navigation statutes and procedural practice, aiming to bridge doctrine and shipboard or commercial practice. Emphasis falls on the interplay of general maritime customs, statutory enactments, and judicial decisions to guide students, mariners, and ship operators in resolving maritime disputes.