As technology continues to reshape global industries, the maritime sector faces profound changes with the emergence of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). This book explores the legal challenges posed by autonomous shipping within the framework of voyage charters, focusing on the key contractual obligations of seaworthiness, care for cargo, and deviation. Traditionally, these obligations have assumed the presence of a human crew. Autonomous vessels challenge these established legal norms, requiring a re-evaluation of how liability is determined and shared between shipowners and charterers.
This book sets out to redefine the shipowner-charterer dynamic, offering a thorough analysis of how the absence or reduction of human presence aboard vessels affects the fulfilment of traditional maritime obligations. This book distinguishes itself by avoiding the common focus on regulatory matters. Instead, it provides a detailed exploration of the contractual relationships between shipowners and charterers, considering both commercial and technical dimensions. It addresses the necessity for adaptation in response to the rise of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and offers practical guidance on how such adaptation should be approached. The goal is to equip stakeholders with the knowledge to consider and manage liability effectively within the changing landscape of maritime law. By presenting a structured framework for risk allocation using charterparty clauses, the book ensures that legal professionals and maritime stakeholders can navigate the nuances of autonomous vessels effectively.
The book is directly relevant to legal practitioners, policy-makers, and industry professionals in the maritime sector, specifically those involved in shipping and maritime law. Legal practitioners will find it valuable for its in-depth analysis of contractual obligations and liability issues in the context of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). Policy-makers could benefit from its insights into the evolving legal landscape, while industry professionals, such as shipowners, charterers, and maritime insurers, will appreciate the practical guidance on adapting to autonomous shipping technologies.
Raphael Esu is a Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Hertfordshire, where he leads modules in Contract Law and Torts, and oversees timetabling for the School of Law. He also has lectured at City, University of London, teaching Carriage of Goods by Sea and Cross-Border Commercial Law, and is a member of the London Universities Maritime Research Group, having organised its annual conference for two years. Dr Esu holds a PhD in Shipping and Commercial Law from City, University of London, with a thesis on managing legal risks in autonomous ships under voyage charter parties. His research focuses on Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships, Contract Law, and Technology, including publications on unmanned vessels and maritime security. He has industry experience as Head of Legal at Propel GmBH, and as an in-house lawyer for international development projects.
