Maritime Laws in India: Your Guide to Navigating Legal Waters
India, with its 7,500+ km coastline, 12 major ports, and vibrant shipping industry, is one of the world’s busiest maritime hubs. From cargo shipping and admiralty disputes to marine insurance claims and international trade contracts, maritime law touches almost every aspect of global commerce — and India is no exception. For businesses, shipowners, insurers, freight forwarders, and traders, understanding the legal framework governing maritime activity in India is not optional — it’s essential.
What Are Maritime Laws?
Maritime law (also called admiralty law) is a specialized legal framework that governs shipping and navigation, marine commerce, and disputes arising at sea. In India, it includes:
International conventions (like UNCLOS & IMO regulations)
Domestic statutes (Admiralty Act, Merchant Shipping Act, etc.)
Judicial precedents set by Indian High Courts & the Supreme Court
Key Legislations in Indian Maritime Law
1. Admiralty (Jurisdiction and Settlement of Maritime Claims) Act, 2017 – Replaces outdated colonial admiralty statutes and grants High Courts jurisdiction over maritime claims such as ship arrest, crew wages, collision damages, and cargo claims.
2. Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 – Covers registration of vessels, safety norms, certification of seafarers, liabilities of shipowners, wreck removal, and pollution.
3. Major Port Authorities Act, 2021 – Governs administration and operations of India’s 12 major ports.
4. Marine Insurance Act, 1963 – Lays down rules for marine cargo insurance and hull policies.
5. Other Statutes – Indian Ports Act, Customs Act, Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, Bills of Lading Act.
Types of Maritime Disputes We Handle
Ship Arrest & Release Cases
Cargo Damage & Loss Claims
Charter Party Disputes
Collisions & Salvage Issues
Seafarer Claims
Marine Insurance Litigation
Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
Why Maritime Law Matters to You
• Shipowners & Operators: Protect your fleet, contracts, and liabilities.
• Exporters & Importers: Ensure your cargo interests are safeguarded.
• Insurers & P&I Clubs: Get support in subrogation and recovery actions.
• Freight Forwarders & Logistics Firms: Navigate port regulations, demurrage, and customs rules.
Any mistake in maritime compliance can cost crores in damages, delay shipments, and harm reputation.
Our Expertise in Maritime Law
Ship Arrest & Bailout Strategies
End-to-End Cargo Claim Solutions
International Arbitration in Shipping
Marine Contract Drafting & Review
Port & Customs Advisory
Where We Appear
Supreme Court of India
High Courts of Bombay, Madras, Gujarat, Calcutta, and Kerala
Arbitration tribunals (domestic & international)
Emerging Trends in Maritime Law
• Digitalization of Bills of Lading: Legal challenges around e-BLs and blockchain in shipping.
• Environmental Regulations: Stricter IMO rules on emissions and their impact on shipowners.
• Offshore Energy & Maritime Zones: Issues around offshore drilling, wind farms, and marine zones.
Why Clients Choose Us
• Deep Expertise: Decades of litigation and advisory experience.
• Strategic Approach: Combining legal insight with industry knowledge.
• Pan-India Reach: Active in courts & ports across India.
• Client-Centric: Tailored strategies for shipowners, traders, insurers, and operators.
Connect With Us
Navigating maritime law isn’t easy. From admiralty arrests to cargo disputes, we’re here to guide you through every legal tide.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Q: Can I arrest a foreign vessel in India?
A: Yes, Indian High Courts under the Admiralty Act, 2017, have jurisdiction to arrest foreign vessels for maritime claims such as unpaid dues or cargo disputes.
• Q: What is the time limit to file a cargo claim?
A: Generally, under the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925, the limitation is one year from the date of delivery or when the goods should have been delivered.
• Q: Does marine insurance cover pollution damage?
A: Most standard hull and machinery policies don’t cover pollution liabilities; separate P&I coverage is usually required.
• Q: Can demurrage be claimed for delays at Indian ports?
A: Yes, charter party contracts often have demurrage clauses, and claims can be enforced under Indian law.