The UK Defence Club is the leading and most influential provider of legal costs insurance to the maritime industry. In uncertain times, we give shipowners and operators the confidence that, if a dispute arises, they will have support for legal and related costs as well as in managing any litigation that arises.
The value of comprehensive legal costs insurance cannot be underestimated.
While the classic definition of a ‘safe port’ has long been established, neither the clarity nor longevity of the legal definition means that unsafe port disputes are reducing in their number or complexity. The aim of this publication is to highlight some of the key aspects of the law on unsafe ports, with particular reference to the types of issues that may arise in the current commercial and political environment.
On 16th May, 2023 the European Parliament approved amendments to the EU Emissions Trading Directive, bringing shipping within the scope of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (“EU ETS”). As a result, from 1st January, 2024, ships of 5000GT and above which transport cargo or passengers for commercial purposes will be subject to the EU ETS.
This document sets out the Club’s expectations when it comes to handling claims on behalf of the Club and its Members.
The quality of bunker fuel continues to be a source of concern to shipowners and charterers. In this publication we set out some important procedures that should be adopted in order to reduce the chances of fuel-related engine damage and ship downtime and provide valuable evidence should a bunker quality claim occur.
The current state of the market has resulted in an increased focus on the sale and purchase of second-hand ships. These transactions can, however, be fraught with potential pitfalls for both buyer and seller alike.
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