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unseaworthiness

Unseaworthiness is a concept based on general maritime law that warrants that the vessel is reasonably fit for the intended use at sea.

Additional Information


Note that the warranty of fitness may extend beyond defective equipment to include such things as lack of proper lifesaving equipment, absence of bathroom facilities, inadequate lighting, a vicious crew, improper stowage, unsafe means of boarding and departing a vessel, and unsafe or improper tools. When the warranty is breached and the ship is shown to be unseaworthy, a no-fault liability is imposed on the shipowner or charterer to make restitution for the injury or death of the individual.